Anterior Tibiofibular Ligament The ankle joint is stabilized by ligaments that hold the bones of the lower extremity together. Injuries to the ligaments of the ankle joint are common especially among athletes. One of these ligaments, called the anterior talofibular ligament, is often involved in inversion injuries. Part 1: Anatomy and Functions of the Anterior Tibiofibular Ligament Deep within the lower leg, near your ankle is the anterior tibiofibular ligament. This tough tissue holds two leg bones (tibia and fibula) together. It is very commonly involved in ankle injuries. Other ligaments that may be involved in ankle injuries include the calcaneofibular ligament and the posterior talofibular ligament. These make up the lateral ligament …show more content…
You may also feel tenderness over the triangular shaped deltoid ligament in the inner side of the ankle. This is apparent when you touch the area around the lateral ankle or higher. Diagnosis of a High Ankle Sprain To diagnose a high ankle sprain, the doctor may perform two simple tests. The first is the “squeeze test,” wherein the doctor squeezes the leg just below your knee to elicit pain radiating to the area of the anterior talofibular ligament, suggesting a high ankle sprain. The second test is called the “external rotation test,” wherein the doctor bends your knee with your ankle placed at neutral position with the foot. The foot is turned to the outer side of the leg and if pain is elicited at the area of the high ankle ligament, then this suggests injury. X-rays of the ankle are also very important to rule out a broken bone or fracture. If an increased space is seen between the leg bones (tibia and fibula) an injury to the high ankle ligaments may be suspected. MRI and CT scan are also very helpful in diagnosing these ankle injuries. Part 3: Treatment of Injuries to the Anterior Tibiofibular Ligament Acute Phase • Physical