Ankle Anatomy

Welcome to Peak Performance Physical Therapy's patient resource about ankle problems.The ankle joint acts like a hinge. But it's much more than a simple hinge joint. The ankle is actually made up of several important structures. The unique design of the ankle makes it a very stable joint. This joint has to be stable in order to withstand 1.5 times your body weight when you walk and up to eight times your body weight when you run.Normal ankle function is needed to walk with a smooth and nearly effortless gait. The muscles, tendons, and ligaments that support the ankle joint work together to propel the body. Conditions that disturb the normal way the ankle works can make it difficult to do your activities without pain or problems.This guide will help you understand:

what parts make up the ankle

how the ankle works

Important StructuresThe important structures of the ankle can be divided into several categories. These include

bones and joints

ligaments and tendons

muscles

nerves

blood vessels

The top of the foot is referred to as the dorsal surface. The sole of the foot is the plantar surface.