What is the Anterior Talofibular Ligament (ATFL)?

The ATFL stands for Anterior Talofibular Ligament. It is one of the most commonly injured ligaments in the ankle. The ATFL connects the talus bone in the foot to the fibula bone in the lower leg. This ligament plays a crucial role in stabilising the ankle joint and preventing excessive inversion (rolling outward) of the ankle.

Injuries to the ATFL often occur during activities that involve sudden changes in direction, jumping, or landing awkwardly causing the ankle to roll outwards, as the foot turns in. An injury to the ATFL is typically referred to as an ankle sprain, and it can range from mild to severe depending on the extent of ligament damage.

Treatment for an ATFL injury usually involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), along with physiotherapy exercises to strengthen the ankle and improve range of motion. Because of the role the ATFL plays in both strength and stability of the lateral ankle, it is important that adequate rehabilitation is undertaken to restore both areas of function, to ensure no deficits remain on return to activity and sport.