Anatomic and Biomechanical Characteristics of the Ankle Joint

The ankle joint is a highly congruent and dynamic joint consisting of three bones, collateral and syndesmotic ligaments, and surrounding tendons and muscles. Articular surfaces and the collateral ligaments guide talar motion within the ankle mortise and ensure stability. Given the talus’ conically shaped surface, the ankle does not move as a pure hinge mechanism; instead, ankle motion occurs in the sagittal, coronal, and transverse planes. The strength of the distal tibia is lower than that of the talus, and the load transfer occurs mainly through the circumferential cortex. In contrast, the load transfer through the fibula accounts for only approximately 10%.