01 / Location & anatomical relationships
Along the outer side of the lower leg.
02 / Structure & organization
The fibula articulates with the tibia at both ends and forms the lateral malleolus distally. Its shaft provides muscle attachments. It does not articulate with the femur as part of the main knee joint.
03 / Function
It helps stabilize your ankle and provides places for muscles to attach.
04 / Mechanism
This slender bone provides attachment points for muscles and ligaments. Its lower end forms the outer ankle bump and helps keep the ankle joint aligned. It carries much less body weight than the tibia.
Part of a bigger picture
The fibula belongs in our bones & movement collection. Explore the nearby parts to see how this area of the body fits together.
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Connect structure with function
Although it bears less axial load than the tibia, the fibula is important for ankle stability. The distal tibiofibular connection maintains the ankle mortise.
Check your understanding
Locate the fibula in relation to its neighbors. Explain how the structural features described above support its function, then distinguish it from a nearby structure with a different role.
Keep learning
Continue with OpenStax Anatomy and Physiology for system-level study. This atlas is educational and has not undergone independent medical peer review.