The function of the ATFL is to resist inversion and plantar flexion of the ankle joint. Injury to the ATFL usually occurs when the athlete's center of gravity is shifted over the lateral border of the weight-bearing leg, causing the ankle to roll inward at a high velocity.

The lateral side of the ankle has three supporting ligaments: the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL), the posterior talofibular ligament (PTFL) and the calcaneofibular ligament(CFL). The three ligaments are together called the Lateral Collateral Ligament Complex.

Aug 8, 2023 · CFL injuries are often described in the lateral ankle compartment, specifically associated with the anterior talofibular ligaments (ATFL); however, the CFL injuries have unique characteristics which can impact long term function, such as mobility and strength.

Feb 28, 2025 · Ankle sprains involve an injury to the ATFL and CFL and are the most common reason for missed athletic participation. Treatment usually includes a period of immobilization followed by physical therapy. Only when nonoperative treatment fails is …

1) The anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL), which connects the talus (ankle bone) to the fibula (outer leg bone) on the outside of the ankle. 2) The calcaneal fibular ligament (CFL), which connects the fibula (outer leg bone) to the calcaneus (heel bone)

Of the three ligaments that comprise the lateral collateral complex, the ATFL is the weakest of the ligaments. In roughly 70 percent of inversion ankle sprains, this is the only ligament damaged. In today’s blog, we take a closer look at ATFL sprains and how they can be effectively treated.

May 23, 2023 · Ankle sprains most commonly involve injury to the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) and/or the calcaneofibular ligament (CFL). Ankle sprains vary depending on the mechanism of injury (high- versus low-energy injuries), position of the foot, and rotational force on the joint and stabilizing ligamentous structures.

What is an anterior talofibular ligament tear? The anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) is the most commonly injured ligament of the ankle joint. This ligament is found on the lateral portion of the ankle and connects the lateral malleolus to the neck to the talus.

The main ligaments of concern are the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL), the calcaneofibular ligament (CFL), and the anterior tibiofibular ligament (also called the anterior inferior tibiofibular ligament or AITFL). The AITFL is the anterior component of the syndesmosis complex (Figure 2).

ATFL = anterior talofibular ligament (blue), CFL = calcaneofibular ligament (red), PTFL = posterior talofibular ligament (green). (Click on image for 3D interactive view. Click-drag to rotate, scroll to zoom.) The CFL provides lateral stabilization to the ankle joint and subtalar joint.