The primary structure behind the heel that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone (calcaneus) is the Achilles tendon, not a ligament. While ligaments connect bone to bone, tendons connect muscle to bone.
Here's a breakdown:
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Achilles Tendon: This is a large, strong tendon located at the back of the ankle and heel. It's crucial for walking, running, and jumping. It connects the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles (calf muscles) to the calcaneus (heel bone).
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Ligaments Around the Ankle and Heel: While not directly behind the heel in the same way the Achilles tendon is, ligaments are important for ankle stability and indirectly support the heel. These include:
- Calcaneofibular Ligament (CFL): Located on the lateral (outer) side of the ankle, the CFL connects the fibula bone (lower leg) to the calcaneus (heel bone). It helps stabilize the ankle against inversion (rolling the ankle outwards). Although not behind the heel, its position somewhat impacts the rear heel area.
- Posterior Talofibular Ligament (PTFL): Also on the lateral side of the ankle, the PTFL connects the talus bone (ankle bone) to the fibula bone. It is involved in ankle stability, and contributes to stability near the heel.
In summary, the most prominent structure directly behind the heel is the Achilles tendon. While ligaments around the ankle, like the CFL and PTFL, aren't behind the heel in the same way, they are essential for ankle stability and function, indirectly supporting the heel.
