The effects of the interosseous membrane and partial fibulectomy upon loading of the tibia: a biomechanical study

The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of the fibula and the (IOM) on load sharing in the lower extremity. Mechanical testing results demonstrated that under the applied compressive loading the IOM and the fibula both function to stabilize the tibia and tend to lessen its posterior-lateral bending (anterior-medial bowing of the tibia). The IOM serves to stabilize the posterior-lateral bowing of the fibula regardless of the position of the foot. Fibular strains were not reduced to zero after sectioning of the IOM, indicating load transmission to the fibula through its proximal and distal ends.