The calcaneocuboid dorsal ligament is the dorsal capsular reinforcement of the calcaneocuboid joint, running from the anterior process of the calcaneus to the dorsal surface of the cuboid. It is part of the bifurcate ligament complex (along with the calcaneonavicular portion) that stabilises the midfoot. The dorsal calcaneocuboid ligament is stressed in Chopart joint injuries.
Reinforces the dorsal calcaneocuboid joint capsule, limits plantarflexion and eversion of the cuboid on the calcaneus, and contributes to midfoot stability during propulsion.
The calcaneocuboid dorsal ligament is part of the bifurcate ligament avulsion from the anterior calcaneal process, a commonly missed ankle injury in inversion sprains. Anterior process calcaneus avulsion fractures are avulsed by the bifurcate ligament and present as persistent lateral hindfoot pain after ankle sprain. A small avulsion fragment at the anterior calcaneal process on oblique radiograph is the diagnostic finding. Most are treated conservatively; large displaced fragments occasionally require fixation.
Ankle inversion with plantar flexion avulses the anterior calcaneal process with the bifurcate ligament origin, producing a fracture fragment missed on standard ankle views but visible on oblique hindfoot radiograph; distinguished from ankle sprain by tenderness precisely over the anterior calcaneal process rather than the fibular ligaments.
