Podiatrists everywhere deal with ankles and feet every day. They treat blisters, corns, bunions, spurs, arthritis, diabetic feet and many other conditions of the feet and the ankles. At Dr. Mayer Salama and Dr. Daniel Salama, located in Dearborn, Farmington Hills, Clarkston, and Trenton, Michigan, we have seen just about everything when it comes to feet. One of the most common questions we receive is, what is an ankle made up of and why is it so important?
Although podiatry is not exclusively focused on the ankle and its injuries, many podiatrists like Dr. Mayer Salama and Dr. Daniel Salama and their staff treat the ankle too. After all, the ankle is connected to the foot bone and plays a large role in our ability to stay mobile, balance, and our overall foot health.
There are seven bones that make up the ankle. One type is called the tarsals. They make up the composition of the ankle. These bones are held together by muscles and ligaments, which are often susceptible to sprains, tears, and other injuries related to overuse, trauma, or normal wear and tear.
The muscles and ligaments connect the ankle bones to the foot. The ankle also connects the foot to the lower leg bones known as the tibia and fibula. The ankle acts as a connection or joint from the foot to the leg and allows us to move around. It helps our foot have a full range of motion and allow us to walk.
The ankle is also known to help keep you stay balanced. Due to the joint, muscles, and ligaments, the ankle is flexible enough to move back and forth as you walk. It also provides flexibility and shock absorption when you run or partake in other activities.
Without the flexibility of the ankle, your entire body will start to feel negative effects of physical exertion. Due to the connective nature of the ankle, you could see problems in your feet, your legs, knees, hips, and spine. Your ankles help balance your body as a whole.
Dr. Mayer Salama and Dr. Daniel Salama know just how important your ankles are and how they can affect your body as a whole. Want to talk anatomy? Think you might have a sprained ankle or arthritic pain? Call 313-274-0990 and appointment online today. We strive to get you fit and on your feet.
