Ankle/Foot

Question 1

Describe and explain the anatomy of the ankle.

Answer 1

Hinge joint, talus articulates with tibia. ligamentous stability is key, 1 degree of freedom, peroneals are stabilizers

Question 2

List and describe the degrees of freedom in the ankle.

Answer 2

1 degree of freedom. Plantarflexion and dorsiflexion.

Question 3

Describe the medial malleolus and deltoid ligament and their importance in ankle eversion sprains.

Answer 3

The medial malleolus is the boney structure on the end of the tibia on the inside of the ankle. The deltoid ligaments is the collective term for the ligaments that support the ankle on the medial side. When eversion sprains happen, the ligaments will become stretched.

Question 4

Describe the structures damaged with the “inversion sprain” of the ankle.

Answer 4

The anterior talo-fibular ligament and the calcaneo-fibular ligament.

Question 5

Describe the pathology and injury mechanism with “Achilles tendon rupture”.

Answer 5

Occurs do to the force exceeding the tendon capacity. Common with middle-aged males. Tendon ruptures most commonly at mid-point and will require surgery if over 20% is ruptured.

Question 6

Describe the anterior drawer test and its indications in the ankle.

Answer 6

The tibia is stabilized while the foot is moved to see amount of movement. Assesses anterior talo-fibular ligament integrity.

Question 7

Describe the “Thompson’s Test” and its indications.

Answer 7

While the patient is prone or kneeling, the calf is squeezed to see if the foot goes into plantar flexion. If it does not, the achilles tendon may be ruptured.

Question 8

Describe the “Homan’s Test” and its indications.

Answer 8

Used to assess for thrombophlebitis or a blood clot causing pain. While patient is supine, dorsiflex the foot and see if it causes pain. if it does, there may be a clot.

Question 9

Which ligament is the most important stabilizer in the ankle?

Answer 9

Anterior talo-fibular ligament