What is a Fibula?
The fibula is the smaller of the two bones in your lower leg, located on the outer side of the tibia (shinbone). It's also known as the calf bone.
- The fibula is a long bone in the lower leg.
- It's situated laterally (on the outside) to the tibia.
- It runs from just below the knee joint down to the ankle joint.
- It's significantly thinner and smaller than the tibia.
The fibula plays a crucial role in ankle stability and contributes to the structure of the lower leg, as noted by Cleveland Clinic (https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/23122-fibula-calf-bone). Its position alongside the tibia, as described by StatPearls (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470591/), provides structural support for the leg. According to Merriam-Webster (https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fibula), it's the outer and usually smaller of the two bones between the knee and ankle.
Function
While not weight-bearing in the same way as the tibia, the fibula plays a vital role in:
- Ankle stability: It contributes significantly to the stability of the ankle joint.
- Muscle attachment: Several muscles attach to the fibula, aiding in movement of the lower leg and foot.
- Leg structure: It provides overall structural support to the lower leg.
Common Injuries
Fractures of the fibula are common, particularly around the ankle (Weber A fracture, as described by HEY NHS (https://www.hey.nhs.uk/patient-leaflet/weber-a-fracture-of-the-fibula-ankle-advice-regarding-healing-and-recovery/)). These often occur alongside tibia fractures. Treatment varies depending on the location and severity of the fracture (https://hartfordhospital.org/services/bone-joint-institute/conditions/sports-injuries/fractured-fibula). Boston Children's Hospital (https://www.childrenshospital.org/conditions/broken-tibia-fibula-shinbonecalf-bone) highlights the seriousness of tibia-fibula fractures requiring prompt medical attention. Rarely, individuals are born with a short or missing fibula (fibular hemimelia, as described by Nemours KidsHealth (https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/fibular-hemimelia.html)).
