What can tenderness over the fibula indicate?

• A. A suspected fracture or an injury to the fibula.
• B. Inflammation of the ankle joint.
• C. Tendonitis in the leg muscles.
• D. Lower back pain radiating to the leg.

Answer: (A)

Tenderness over the fibula is indicative of a suspected fracture or an injury to the fibula itself. The fibula is a long, slender bone located on the outer side of the lower leg, and it plays a crucial role in weight-bearing and maintaining the stability of the ankle. When there is localized tenderness in this area, it often suggests that the integrity of the bone may be compromised, whether from an acute fracture resulting from trauma or a stress fracture that has developed due to repetitive stress or overuse.

This tenderness can be accompanied by other signs such as swelling, bruising, or limited range of motion, all of which further support the likelihood of a fibular injury. Considering alternative options, inflammation of the ankle joint, tendonitis in the leg muscles, or lower back pain radiating to the leg would manifest with different signs or locations of tenderness and would not specifically point to an issue with the fibula itself. Thus, tenderness over the fibula is most directly associated with possible fractures or injuries to that bone.