01 / Location & anatomical relationships
On the inner side of the lower leg, below the knee.
02 / Structure & organization
The tibial plateau supports the femoral condyles through the menisci. The tibial tuberosity receives the patellar ligament, and the distal medial malleolus forms part of the ankle mortise.
03 / Function
It carries much of your weight between your knee and ankle.
04 / Mechanism
The wide top receives weight from the femur, and the lower end meets the ankle. Its strong shaft transfers force between these joints. It works with the fibula and surrounding muscles to support the leg.
Part of a bigger picture
The tibia 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
The tibia is the main weight-bearing leg bone. Force transmission through it depends on joint surfaces, alignment and surrounding soft tissues.
Check your understanding
Locate the tibia 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.