Fibular Trochlea Of The Human Calcaneus, Lateral View

Description

Fibular trochlea (peroneal tubercle) projects from the lateral surface of the calcaneus, positioned inferior to the lateral malleolar articular region and anterior to the calcaneal tuberosity. From this lateral perspective, the trochlea appears as a ridge separating the superior groove for the tendon of fibularis (peroneus) brevis from the inferior groove for fibularis (peroneus) longus as it courses toward the cuboid. The subtalar joint line lies superior and slightly posterior, while the lateral wall of the calcaneal body forms the broader bony backdrop. Small structure, big implications. Hypertrophy of the fibular trochlea is a common anatomic contributor to lateral hindfoot pain, where mechanical friction can drive fibularis longus or brevis tenosynovitis and, in athletes, mimic symptoms of a lateral ankle sprain. Because the grooves and ridge are seen in a fixed lateral orientation, the illustration supports teaching why the peroneal tendons split into distinct channels at the calcaneus and how osteophytes or a prominent tubercle can narrow that passage. This is also a practical landmark when discussing the superior and inferior fibular (peroneal) retinacula and their relationship to tendon stability along the lateral heel. Use this illustration in gross anatomy or podiatric anatomy courses to anchor lateral foot surface anatomy, or in orthopedic and sports medicine teaching files when outlining the differential for peroneal tendon disorders and lateral hindfoot impingement. Medical publishers can pair it with content on calcaneal fractures, peroneal tendon imaging, and surgical debridement around the peroneal tubercle. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.