Anatomy Exam Joints of the Lower Limb 4 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: The ankle (talocrural) joint primarily allows which movements?
- Dorsiflexion and plantarflexion (Correct answer)
- Inversion and eversion
- Abduction and adduction
- Pronation and supination
Correct answer: Dorsiflexion and plantarflexion
The talocrural joint is a hinge (ginglymus) joint that permits dorsiflexion and plantarflexion; inversion and eversion occur primarily at the subtalar joint.
Question 2: The most commonly injured ligament in an inversion ankle sprain is:
- Anterior talofibular ligament (Correct answer)
- Calcaneofibular ligament
- Posterior talofibular ligament
- Deltoid ligament
Correct answer: Anterior talofibular ligament
The anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) is the weakest and most frequently torn ligament in inversion ankle sprains, as it is taut during plantarflexion.
Question 3: The subtalar (talocalcaneal) joint primarily contributes to which foot movements?
- Inversion and eversion (Correct answer)
- Dorsiflexion and plantarflexion
- Toe extension and flexion
- Abduction and adduction of the forefoot
Correct answer: Inversion and eversion
The subtalar joint, between the talus and calcaneus, is the main joint responsible for foot inversion and eversion, allowing adaptation to uneven surfaces.
Question 4: Which bone is sometimes called the 'keystone' of the medial longitudinal arch?
- Talus (Correct answer)
- Navicular
- First cuneiform
- Calcaneus
Correct answer: Talus
The talus sits at the apex of the medial longitudinal arch and transmits body weight to both the calcaneus posteriorly and the navicular anteriorly.
Question 5: The deltoid ligament of the ankle resists which force?
- Eversion of the foot (Correct answer)
- Inversion of the foot
- Plantarflexion
- Dorsiflexion
Correct answer: Eversion of the foot
The strong deltoid (medial collateral) ligament on the medial side of the ankle is the primary restraint against eversion, making isolated deltoid tears uncommon.
Question 6: The Lisfranc joint complex refers to the articulation between:
- Tarsals and metatarsals (Correct answer)
- Metatarsals and proximal phalanges
- Talus and navicular
- Calcaneus and cuboid
Correct answer: Tarsals and metatarsals
The Lisfranc joint (tarsometatarsal joint complex) connects the midfoot tarsals to the five metatarsal bases; injuries here are clinically significant and often missed.
Question 7: The interosseous talocalcaneal ligament is located in which anatomical space?
- Sinus tarsi (Correct answer)
- Tarsal tunnel
- Plantar fascia
- Anterior ankle recess
Correct answer: Sinus tarsi
The interosseous talocalcaneal ligament lies within the sinus tarsi (a canal between the talus and calcaneus), binding the two bones and limiting subtalar motion.
Anatomy Exam Joints of the Lower Limb 4
The ankle (talocrural) joint primarily allows which movements?