Which ligaments are primarily responsible for supporting the ankle?

The ligaments that are primarily responsible for supporting the ankle are the anterior talofibular, calcaneofibular, and posterior talofibular ligaments. These ligaments are integral components of the lateral ankle complex, which plays a crucial role in stabilizing the ankle joint, particularly during activities involving movement and weight-bearing.

The anterior talofibular ligament connects the talus bone to the fibula and is the most commonly injured ligament in ankle sprains. The calcaneofibular ligament runs from the fibula to the calcaneus (heel bone) and provides additional stability particularly during inversion movements. The posterior talofibular ligament, while not as frequently involved in injuries, contributes to the overall stability of the ankle, especially during dorsiflexion.

Other choices mention ligaments associated with different joints or areas of the body. The medial collateral, lateral collateral, and anterior cruciate ligaments are primarily involved in knee stability, while the deltoid ligament supports the medial side of the ankle and is known for its role in stabilizing against eversion injuries. The patellar ligament and iliotibial band are related to the knee joint, and fibular ligaments are not primarily ankle stabilizers. Overall,