The lateral malleolus is the bony prominence on the outer side of the ankle, formed by the distal end of the fibula. Together with the medial malleolus, it creates a stable mortise joint that cradles the talus bone, providing essential stability to the ankle. This structure serves as an attachment point for the lateral ligaments of the ankle and helps prevent excessive inversion of the foot.
The term "malleolus" comes from the Latin word "malleus" meaning hammer or mallet, due to its hammer-like shape. "Lateral" indicates its position on the outer side of the ankle.
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