The medial malleolus Surface Anatomy

Location

The medial malleolus is the distal portion of the tibia, which forms the medial boney prominence at the ankle joint. The medial malleolus lays more anterior and superior when compared to the lateral malleolus. Additionally, the medial malleolus is located just proximal and posterior to the navicular tuberosity.

Significance

Tenderness, swelling, and ecchymosis over the medial malleolus may be evidence of a fracture, which may be due to direct trauma or an avulsion fracture. Stress fractures of the tibia usually occur 2-3cm proximal to the tip of the medial malleolus and may be identified by tenderness in that area.