Biomechanics of the lateral ligaments of the ankle: an evaluation of the effects of axial load and single plane motions on ligament strain patterns.

Strain behavior in the anterior talofibular and calcaneofibular ligaments of the ankle, with and without axial load, was evaluated using human cadaveric specimens, a specially designed instrumented test fixture, and Hall-Effect strain transducers. Ligament strain patterns were significantly altered with axial loading in some conditions. This data may have clinical relevance both in the diagnosis and rehabilitation of lateral ligament injuries.