Leg Bones

The term "leg" is often used to describe the lower limb of the human body. This definition includes the upper leg, lower leg and foot. Anatomically the term "leg" refers to the part of the lower limb between the knee and the ankle. In the sections below, we provide a general description of the lower limb, including the upper leg and lower leg. More detail on the knee and foot can be found on the knee and foot pages, respectively.

Leg Bones

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Leg Bones - Anterior or Front View

Humans have two legs. We use our legs everyday for standing, walking, jumping, running, kicking, and similar activities. The legs must be strong and sturdy in order to support our body weight.

There are four major bones in the leg. The three large bones are the femur in the upper leg, and the tibia and fibula in the lower leg. The femur is also known as the thigh bone. The tibia is sometimes called the shinbone. The fibula is the smaller, rear calf bone in the lower leg. The patella, or knee cap, is the bone in front of the knee.

The femur connects with the hip bone to support the trunk and upper body. The tibia and fibula connect with the foot at the ankle. The upper leg is connected with the lower leg at the knee joint.

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Leg Bones

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Leg Bones

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