Ankle instability: in vitro kinematics in response to axial load

This study was undertaken to elucidate the kinematics of hindfoot instability. An axial load was applied to the inverted hindfoot. Unlike prior studies, axial rotation was not constrained. Using computerized tomography, measurements were made on the axial views of external or internal rotation of the leg, talus, and calcaneus. On the coronal views, tilting of the talus at the ankle and subtalar joints was assessed. No tilting of the talus in the mortise occurred with isolated release of the anterior talofibular (ATF) or calcaneofibular (CF) ligament. In every specimen, talar tilt occurred only after both ligaments were released, averaging 20.6 degrees. External rotation of the leg occurred with inversion averaging 11.1 degrees in the intact specimen. The leg averaged a further external rotation of 4.9 degrees after ATF release and 12.8 degrees further than the intact inverted specimens when both ligaments (ATF-CF) had been released. In earlier reports on the subject, the articular surfaces were believed to be the main constraint against tilting of the talus. In those studies, either axial rotation was constrained while inversion was allowed, or vice versa. Based on the data reported here, the ATF and the CF work in tandem to prevent tilting of the talus, and the articular surfaces do not seem to prevent tilting of the talus in the mortise.