Talus

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The talus is the most proximal bone of the foot that belongs to the group of bones collectively known as the tarsus. It articulates with four bones: the tibia, fibula, calcaneus and navicular. In articulating with the tibia and fibula superiorly, the talus forms the ankle/talocrural joint, and thereby establishes a link between the leg and the foot. Inferiorly, the talus articulates with the calcaneus forming the subtalar/talocalcaneal joint, while anteriorly it articulates with the navicular bone where it forms the talonavicular joint. In these articulations, the talus represents the cornerstone of the longitudinal arch formed by the tarsal and metatarsal bones, that transmits the entire weight of the body evenly to the heel and forefoot when standing.

To find out all the details about the parts, surfaces and landmarks of the talus, as well as the ligaments that support the joints formed by the talus, check out the video below!

Take a quiz

After watching the video about the talus, you should be armed with enough knowledge to tackle this quiz!

If you’re up for a challenge, here is a quiz on the entire ankle and foot. Customize it by choosing exactly the topics you want to be quizzed on.

Browse atlas

Take a closer look at the divisions and bony landmarks of the talus in the gallery below.

Summary