Corpus: Interosseous membrane of leg

The interosseous membrane of the leg is a fibrous layer of connective tissue between the two lower leg bones, the tibia and fibula.

The interosseous membrane extends from the interosseous crest of the tibia to the interosseous crest of the fibula. Most fibers run obliquely distally and laterally, with a small section crossing in the opposite direction. Proximally, the membrane is wider than distally.

The proximal end of the interosseous membrane does not reach the upper tibiofibular joint, but has a free concave edge that encloses a large oval opening for the passage of the anterior tibial vein and artery. The distal part merges into the tibiofibular syndesmosis, where small openings allow passage for the fibular artery and vein.

The interosseous membrane fixes the fibula to the tibia and separates the flexor and extensor muscles. It also serves as an additional muscle attachment surface for the following lower leg muscles:

• Tibialis anterior muscle
• Extensor digitorum longus muscle
• Extensor hallucis longus muscle
• Fibularis tertius muscle
• Tibialis posterior muscle
• Flexor hallucis longus muscle

Additionally, the interosseous membrane is involved in the transmission and distribution of forces acting on the foot to the lower leg bones and surrounding tissue. It serves an important biomechanical shock absorber function.

• Pschyrembel - Membrana interossea cruris, accessed 26/09/2022