The deltoid ligament or the medial ligament of ankle joint is a strong, flat and triangular band made up of 4 ligaments that form the triangle, connecting the tibia to the navicular, the calcaneus, and the talus.
The deltoid ligament, also known as the medial collateral ligament (MCL) of the ankle, is a strong and broad ligament located on the inner side of the ankle joint. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the stability and integrity of the ankle joint, especially on the medial (inner) aspect. The deltoid ligament connects the tibia (shinbone) to the talus and calcaneus bones of the foot.
The deltoid ligament is composed of several individual ligamentous bands that work together to provide stability to the ankle joint and prevent excessive eversion (outward rolling) of the foot. These ligamentous bands are named based on their attachment points and orientations:
- Anterior tibiotalar ligament: Connects the front of the medial malleolus (bony prominence of the tibia) to the talus bone.
- Tibionavicular ligament: Extends from the medial malleolus to the navicular bone.
- Tibiocalcaneal ligament: Connects the medial malleolus to the calcaneus bone.
- Posterior tibiotalar ligament: Runs from the posterior (back) aspect of the medial malleolus to the talus.
The deltoid ligament primarily resists excessive eversion of the foot, which means it helps prevent the ankle from rolling outward. This is particularly important in maintaining the overall stability of the ankle joint and preventing injuries like ankle sprains that can occur when the ligaments are stretched or torn due to excessive forces, such as during a sudden twisting motion.
