Ankle

Abstract

The ankle consists of the ankle joint (the tibia and the fibula proximally, and the talus dis- tally) and those (structures which surround it (Fig. 771). The 2 malleoli can be felt distinctly, the lateral being less prominent, descending lower and lying farther back than the medial. The tip of the lateral malleolus is about 1/2 inch below and behind the tip of its corresponding bony prominence. Anterior to the lateral malleolus and lateral to the tendon of the peroneus tertius is a shallow depression which indicates the level of the ankle joint. A similar depression lies between the medial malleolus and the tibialis anterior tendon. At these two points the ankle joint is very superficial, and, when fluid is present, these areas become filled and form soft projections. If the foot is forcibly plantarflexed, the talus (astragalus) glides forward out of its socket and produces a prominence which is most apparent in front of the lateral malleolus. The medial or internal malleolus is large, flat and prominent. The ankle joint lies approximately 1/2 inch above the tip of the internal malleolus.