Tendons and ligaments cover these three bones. The three bones together create the ankle joint. Both the tibia and fibula attach to the talus (the top bone of the foot). The fibula is the smaller leg bone (on the outside of the leg). The tibia is a large leg bone (on the inside of the leg) that bears most of the body’s weight. The ankle joint is composed of three bones, which include the tibia, fibula, and talus. This ligament is known as the ATFL (Anterior Talofibular Ligament). There are various ligaments in the ankle which can be twisted or sprained, however the most common is the one located on the outside of the ankle. Such injuries happen during athletic events, while running or walking or even doing something as simple as getting out of bed. This usually occurs when the ground is uneven or when an unusual amount of force is applied to the joint.

The ankle joint, which connects the foot with the lower leg, is injured often when an unnatural twisting motion occurs to the foot when it is planted awkwardly. Within this blog, I will go into the anatomy of the ankle, who is predisposed to ankle injuries, signs and symptoms of a twisted ankle/sprain, and treatment methods used to assist with the healing of a twisted ankle or sprained ankle.Ī twisted ankle, ankle twist, rolled ankle, ankle sprain/strain, or someone with a glass ankle is one of the most frequent types of injury seen by health practitioners. Usually, this is caused by multiple ankle sprains. In Medical terms, the glass ankle refers to someone with ankle instability. With those with “ glass ankles“, they must make sure to be delicate on their feet and avoid compromising positions. Furthermore, his ankles become weak, swollen and movements are painful.Īs with glass, you need to be very careful not to tilt, drop or misplace it…if you do it will break into many pieces. When this occurred, he explains that it is difficult for him to walk.

He explained that a simple misstep, stumble or twist would lead to his ankles giving out.

The first time I heard that my patient had “ glass ankles, I remained uncertain as to what he meant.

From time to time, I have patients who replace a common medical diagnosis with a slang term or name.

Anterior talofibular ligament