Anatomy of the Tibia and Fibula

Vocabulary flashcards covering the anatomical landmarks, borders, and articular surfaces of the tibia and fibula from anterior and posterior perspectives.

Tibia

The larger, medial bone of the lower leg that articulates proximally with the femur and fibula, and distally with the talus and fibula.

Fibula

The slender, lateral bone of the lower leg positioned parallel to the tibia.

Tibial tuberosity

A prominent elevation located on the proximal anterior aspect of the tibia, inferior to the condyles.

Lateral condyle

The lateral proximal expansion of the tibia that provides an articular surface for the lateral femoral condyle.

Medial condyle

The medial proximal expansion of the tibia that provides an articular surface for the medial femoral condyle.

Articular surface of medial condyle

The smooth superior facet situated on the medial condyle of the tibia.

Articular surface of lateral condyle

The smooth superior facet situated on the lateral condyle of the tibia.

Head of fibula

The expanded proximal end of the fibula that articulates with the lateral condyle of the tibia.

Anterior border

The prominent, sharp ridge extending longitudinally down the anterior surface of the tibial shaft.

Interosseous membrane

The fibrous sheet of connective tissue spanning the interosseous space between the tibia and the fibula.

Soleal line

A prominent oblique ridge located on the posterior surface of the proximal shaft of the tibia.

Medial malleolus

The prominent medial bony projection situated at the distal end of the tibia.

Lateral malleolus

The bony projection forming the distal expansion of the fibula.

Articular surface (distal tibia)

The smooth inferior surface at the distal end of the tibia that participates in the ankle joint.