Ankle joint

In anatomy, the ankle joint is the "joint that is formed by the inferior articular and malleolar articular surfaces of the tibia; the malleolar articular surface of the fibula; and the medial malleolar, lateral malleolar, and superior surfaces of the talus"

Injuries

Diagnosis

The Ottawa ankle rules, a clinical prediction rule, can indicate a possible fracture and the need for x-rays (see image):

Ankle x-rays may be needed

• "...if there is pain in the malleolar zone and one or more of the following:
  • "Bone tenderness at posterior edge (distal 6 cm) or tip of lateral malleolus"
  • "Bone tenderness at posterior edge (distal 6 cm) or tip of medial malleolus"
  • "Inability to bear weight both immediately after the injury and in the emergency department"

Foot x-rays may be needed

• "...if there is pain in the midfoot zone and one or more of the following:
  • "Bone tenderness at base of fifth metatarsal"
  • "Bone tenderness at navicular bone"
  • "Inability to bear weight both immediately after the injury and in the emergency department"

Treatment

For severe sprains, below-knee casts for 10 days may be better than compression bandages.