What is the Ankle Joint?

Written By Nick Stamatiou
Description: The ankle joint, a crucial component of the lower extremity, is a hinge joint that facilitates movement and stability in the foot. It plays a pivotal role in various weight-bearing activities, making it essential for both daily life and

Description:

The ankle joint, a crucial component of the lower extremity, is a hinge joint that facilitates movement and stability in the foot. It plays a pivotal role in various weight-bearing activities, making it essential for both daily life and athletic pursuits. Understanding the ankle joint's anatomy and function is key to appreciating its significance in human locomotion.

Anatomy of the Ankle Joint:

The ankle joint comprises several vital components:

  1. Tibia and Fibula: The two lower leg bones, with the tibia forming the inner and larger part of the ankle's bony structure.

  2. Talus: A bone in the foot that sits between the tibia and fibula, forming the lower part of the ankle joint.

  3. Ligaments: Bands of connective tissue, including the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL), posterior talofibular ligament (PTFL), and calcaneofibular ligament (CFL), that provide stability and restrict excessive joint movement.

  4. Muscles: The calf muscles, such as the gastrocnemius and soleus, play a significant role in ankle movement and support.

  5. Tendons: Tendons connecting the muscles to the bones, like the Achilles tendon, facilitate joint motion.

Function of the Ankle Joint:

The ankle joint's primary functions include:

  • Walking and Running: Supporting the body's weight and enabling forward propulsion during ambulation.

  • Balancing: Maintaining stability on uneven surfaces and during dynamic movements.

  • Jumping and Landing: Facilitating takeoff and absorbing impact during landings.

  • Dorsiflexion and Plantarflexion: Allowing movements that involve lifting the foot upward (dorsiflexion) and pointing it downward (plantarflexion).

Common Ankle Joint Issues:

Several common issues can affect the ankle joint:

  1. Ankle Sprains: Injuries to the ligaments, often caused by excessive twisting or rolling of the ankle, resulting in pain and swelling.

  2. Achilles Tendonitis: Inflammation of the Achilles tendon, leading to pain and stiffness in the back of the ankle.

  3. Ankle Fractures: Breaks in the ankle bones, usually caused by trauma or excessive force.

  4. Arthritis: Degenerative joint disease affecting the ankle, causing pain and reduced mobility.

By Charlie Molloy

 

Nick Stamatiou

Nick has a strong interest in sports and musculoskeletal physiotherapy and is motivated to help people reach their desired goals and to achieve their full potential.

His experience includes:

  • Sports and musculoskeletal physiotherapist in a private practice setting

  • Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation inpatient physiotherapist at Brisbane Private Hospital

  • Clinical Reformer and Mat-work Pilates instructor

  • Football gameday physiotherapist

While Nick is skilled in managing all areas of musculoskeletal physiotherapy, he has a particular interest in the rehabilitation of muscle strains, hip, knee and lower back conditions. Nick offers dry needling, massage and joint mobilisation to compliment exercise prescription.

Previous

Rotator Cuff
Next

What is the Hip Joint?