The Fibula - Podcast Version 0:00 / 0:00 1x 0.25x 0.5x 0.75x 1x 1.25x 1.5x 1.75x 2x The fibula is a bone located within the lateral aspect of the leg. Its main function is to act as an attachment for muscles, and not as a weight-bearer. It has three main articulations: Proximal tibiofibular joint – articulates with the lateral condyle of the tibia. Distal tibiofibular joint – articulates with the fibular notch of the tibia. Ankle joint – articulates with the talus bone of the foot. In this article, we shall look at the anatomy of the fibula – its structure, bony landmarks and clinical relevance. Adapted from work by Anatomography [CC BY-SA 2.1 jp], via Wikimedia Commons Fig 1Overview of the position of the fibula within the leg. Pro Feature - 3D Model You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our 3D Model Library Explore, cut, dissect, annotate and manipulate our 3D models to visualise anatomy in a dynamic, interactive way. Learn More Bony Landmarks Proximal There are two important bony landmarks at the proximal end of the fibula – the fibular head and fibular neck: Fibular head – contains an articular facet on its medial surface for articulation with the lateral condyle of the tibia, forming the proximal tibiofibular joint. Fibular neck – connects the head to the shaft of the fibula. The common fibular nerve winds around the posterolateral aspect of the fibular neck before dividing into its terminal branches, making it vulnerable to injury at this location. Shaft The fibular shaft has three surfaces – anterior, lateral and posterior. The leg is split into three compartments, and each surface faces its respective compartment e.g anterior surface faces the anterior compartment of the leg. Distal Distally, the lateral surface continues inferiorly, and is called the lateral malleolus. The lateral malleolus is more prominent than the medial malleolus, and can be palpated at the ankle on the lateral side of the leg. Adapted from work by OpenStax College [CC BY 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons Fig 2Anatomical landmarks of the fibula Clinical Relevance Fractures of the Fibula At the ankle, the lateral malleolus of the fibula is prone to fracture. There are two main ways in which this occurs. The first way is by forced external rotation of the ankle. This force of the talus against the bone causes a spiral fracture of the lateral malleolus. The other, less common way, by the foot being twisted outwards (called eversion). Again, the talus presses against the lateral malleolus, and this time causes a transverse fracture. By James Heilman, MD [CC-BY-SA-3.0], via Wikimedia Commons Fig 3Fracture of the lateral malleolus. Do you think you’re ready? Take the quiz below Pro Feature - Quiz The Fibula Question 1 of 3 Submitting... Skip Next Rate question: You scored 0% Skipped: 0/3 1800 More Questions Available Upgrade to TeachMeAnatomy Pro Challenge yourself with over 1800 multiple-choice questions to reinforce learning Learn More Frequent questions What is the primary function of the fibula? The fibula primarily serves as an attachment point for muscles rather than bearing weight. It plays a crucial role in stabilising the ankle and supporting the muscles of the leg. What are the main articulations of the fibula? The fibula articulates at three key joints: the proximal tibiofibular joint with the tibia, the distal tibiofibular joint with the fibular notch of the tibia, and the ankle joint with the talus bone. These articulations are essential for leg and ankle mobility. Where are the significant bony landmarks located on the fibula? The significant bony landmarks on the fibula are the fibular head and fibular neck at the proximal end. The fibular head features an articular facet for the proximal tibiofibular joint, while the fibular neck is where the common fibular nerve is vulnerable to injury. What is the clinical significance of the lateral malleolus? The lateral malleolus, located at the distal end of the fibula, is prominent and easily palpated. It is clinically significant as it is prone to fractures, particularly due to forced external rotation or eversion of the ankle. How do fibula fractures typically occur? Fibula fractures commonly occur at the lateral malleolus due to two main mechanisms: forced external rotation of the ankle, resulting in a spiral fracture, or eversion of the foot, leading to a transverse fracture. These injuries arise from the talus exerting pressure against the bone. Rate This Article