The Bones Of The Lower Leg: Tibia and FibulaThe lower legs consist of the Tibia and the Fibula. These two bones run parallel and are connected by an Interosseous Membrane. They also articulate with each other.
Tibia (Shin-bone)
The Tibia articulates with the Femur (upper leg) and the Talus (Ankle). This bone carries all the body’s weight. It is the main bone of the lower leg and can be found on the more medial side of the leg.
Fibula
Although this bone runs parallel to the Tibia, it doesn’t actually carry much weight. Instead, it acts as a stabilizer. It articulates with the Tibia and the Talus. It’s inferior end (Lateral Malleolus) is the bone that sticks out on the outside of the ankle. The Fibula can be found on the lateral side (outside) of the lower leg.
A. Lateral Malleolus The Lateral Malleolus articulates with the Talus and forms the lateral ankle bulge.
B. Distal Tibiofibular Joint
A fibrous joint between the Tibia and the Fibula, that can be found towards the bottom of the lower leg. This joint allows very little movement.
C. Fibula
The Fibula is a stick-like bone that can be found toward the outside of the lower leg. It articulates with the Tibia at both ends and acts as a stabilizer for the ankle joint.
D. Interosseous Membrane
A flexible membrane that connects the Tibia and Fibula.
E. Proximal Tibiofibular Joint
A fibrous joint between the Tibia and the Fibula, that can be found towards the top of the lower leg. This joint allows very little movement.
F. Head of Fibular
Found at the top of the Fibular, it articulates with the Tibia.
G. Lateral Condyle
Found at the top of the Femur, on the Fibula side. It articulates with the Femur.
H. Intercondylar Eminence
The partition between the two Tibial Condyles
I. Medial Condyle
Found at the top of the Femur. It articulates with the Femur.
J. Tibial Tuberosity
The Tibial Tuberosity is located at the top, front of the Tibia. It has a rough surface and provides the attachment point for the Patellar Ligament.
K. Anterior Crest
The Anterior Crest is the ridge you can feel down the front of your shin.
L. Tibia
The Tibia is the largest bone of the lower leg and is also known as the 'shin-bone'. It articulates with the Talus, Fibula, and Femur.
M. Medial Malleolus
The Medial Malleolus is the projection found at the bottom of the Tibia, that forms the inner bulge of the ankle.