What is the common name for the tarsal bones in the foot?

The tarsal bones in the foot are commonly referred to as the ankle. This term encompasses a group of seven bones that form the posterior part of the foot and play a crucial role in supporting weight and facilitating movement. The tarsal bones consist of the talus, calcaneus, navicular, cuboid, and the three cuneiform bones (medial, intermediate, and lateral). The ankle joint itself is formed where the tibia and fibula of the lower leg meet these tarsal bones. Understanding this terminology is important in beauty therapy, as knowledge of the anatomy helps in effectively performing pedicures and recognizing potential issues related to foot health.

The other terms—heel, arch, and foot—refer to different parts or structures in the foot. The heel specifically points to the calcaneus bone at the back of the foot, the arch generally refers to the curvature formed by the foot bones, and the term foot describes the entire structure of the foot, which includes not just the tarsal bones but also the metatarsal and phalangeal bones. Thus, "ankle" is the most accurate term to describe the tarsal bones.