ankle

This term refers to the hinge joint that allows the foot to move up and down and side to side. It is often used interchangeably to describe both the internal skeletal joint and the external bony protrusions known as malleoli. In medical or athletic contexts, the word frequently appears in the context of injuries, such as sprains, where the ligaments are stretched or torn. It serves as a critical anatomical landmark for measuring sock height or footwear fit.