Overview
This lecture explains the anatomy, structure, functions, and common conditions of the ankle joint, including its components and how it works.
Ankle Joint Basics
- The ankle connects your foot to your lower leg.
- Also called the tibiotalar or talocrural joint.
- Composed of bones, cartilage, ligaments, muscles, nerves, and blood vessels.
Ankle Function
- The ankle provides stability and balance during movement.
- Two main movements: plantar flexion (foot points down) and dorsiflexion (foot points up).
Anatomy of the Ankle
- Located at the lower end of the leg, joining the foot and leg.
- Classified as a synovial (freely moving) and hinge (moves in two directions) joint.
Bones
- Made up of the tibia (shin bone), fibula (calf bone), and talus.
Cartilage
- Hyaline (articular) cartilage covers bone ends, providing smooth, frictionless movement.
Ligaments
- Medial (deltoid) ligaments connect tibia to foot bones.
- Lateral ligaments connect fibula to talus and heel.
- Syndesmotic ligaments connect tibia and fibula.
Muscles
- Plantarflexion: gastrocnemius, soleus, plantaris, tibialis posterior, flexor digitorum longus, flexor hallucis longus, peroneus brevis/longus.
- Dorsiflexion: tibialis anterior, extensor digitorum longus, extensor hallucis longus, peroneus tertius.
Nerves
- Tibial, superficial peroneal, and deep peroneal nerves control movement and sensation.
Blood Vessels
- Anterior tibial, posterior tibial, and peroneal arteries supply the ankle.
Common Conditions & Symptoms
- Conditions: arthritis, gout, bursitis, tendinitis, flat feet, sprains, tendon injuries, fractures.
- Symptoms: pain, swelling, stiffness, instability, redness, warmth.
Diagnosis & Care
- Common tests: X-ray, ultrasound, joint aspiration, CT, MRI, blood tests.
- RICE method for minor injuries: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation.
- Consult a healthcare provider if pain is severe or persistent.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Synovial Joint — a freely moving joint with a fluid-filled cavity.
- Hyaline Cartilage — smooth cartilage lining joint surfaces.
- Plantar Flexion — movement of the foot downward.
- Dorsiflexion — movement of the foot upward.
- Ligaments — strong bands connecting bones in joints.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review major ankle ligaments, muscles, and movements.
- Practice labeling ankle anatomy on diagrams.
- Know basic first aid (RICE) for ankle injuries.