What are the bones of the ankle collectively known as?

The bones of the ankle are collectively known as the tarsals. The tarsal bones include a group of seven bones that play a vital role in forming the ankle joint and providing stability and support for the foot. The primary tarsal bones are the talus, calcaneus, navicular, cuboid, and the three cuneiforms (medial, intermediate, and lateral). This arrangement allows for the complex movements of the ankle, such as dorsiflexion and plantarflexion, enabling a person to walk, run, and perform various physical activities.

In contrast, the cuboids refer specifically to one of the tarsal bones and are part of the tarsal group, while the metatarsals are the long bones in the middle of the foot, and the phalanges are the bones of the toes. Recognizing the grouping of bones is essential for identifying their functions and understanding the anatomy of the foot and ankle.