Which ligament is most likely injured when an ankle is forced into inversion while plantar flexed?

The anterior talofibular ligament is the most likely ligament to be injured when the ankle is forced into inversion while in a plantar flexed position. This injury mechanism is common in ankle sprains, particularly when the foot is pointed downwards (plantar flexion) and turned inwards (inversion). In this position, the anterior talofibular ligament, which connects the talus to the fibula, experiences excessive stress and is at risk of tearing due to the increased lateral motion of the ankle.

Understanding the biomechanics involved in ankle injuries is crucial, as it highlights how specific movements can lead to certain ligamentous injuries. The anterior talofibular ligament is known for being one of the first ligaments affected during such an inversion injury, mainly because of its anatomical position and role in stabilizing the ankle joint.

While other ligaments, such as the calcaneofibular and anterior tibiofibular ligaments, play important roles in overall ankle stability, their involvement is less likely in this specific mechanism of injury when compared to the anterior talofibular ligament. The tibiocalcaneal ligament also does not play a primary role in lateral stability and is typically not involved in an inversion injury at the ankle