What type of joint is the ankle classified as?

The ankle is classified as a hinge joint because it primarily allows movement in one plane, facilitating dorsiflexion and plantarflexion. This type of joint permits a back-and-forth motion akin to that of a door, where the main movement occurs along a single axis, allowing the foot to move upward and downward. The structure of the ankle includes bone surfaces that fit together to provide stability while also allowing for the necessary range of motion associated with walking, running, and other activities.

While other joint types like ball and socket joints or pivot joints facilitate different types of movement, such as rotation or multi-directional movement, the hinge configuration of the ankle is specifically designed to support the forward and backward motion essential for normal gait and stability during weight-bearing activities.