Biomechanical Sequelae of Syndesmosis Injury and Repair

Abstract

This review characterizes fibula mechanics in the context of syndesmosis injury and repair. Through detailed understanding of fibula kinematics (the study of motion) and kinetics (the study of forces that cause motion), the full complexity of fibula motion can be appreciated. Although the magnitudes of fibula rotation and translation are inherently small, even slight alterations of fibula position or movement can substantially impact force propagation through the ankle and hindfoot joints. Accordingly, implications for clinical care are discussed.

Keywords: Contact mechanics; Fibula; Fixation; High ankle sprain; Kinematics; Kinetics; Ligament; Tibiofibular joint.