The ankle joint is made up of three bones, the tibia or shinbone, the fibula, and the talus, which is a bone in your foot. The ends of these three bones form the ankle joint and are covered by a special type of tissue called articular cartilage. Cartilage provides a smooth and slippery gliding surface, allowing the foot to move easily and painlessly when walking or running.

The ankle joint is connected together by strong bands of fibers called ligaments, which hold the bones in their proper place but also allow for normal ankle motion.

Nerves, blood vessels, and tendons also cross the ankle joint. The nerves allow for feeling and movement, blood vessels supply oxygen and nutrients, and tendons allow for movement of the foot, toes, and ankle.