What is the name of the lateral and smaller bone in the lower leg?

The lateral and smaller bone in the lower leg is known as the fibula. This bone runs parallel to the tibia, which is the larger and more prominent bone located on the medial side of the leg. The fibula is typically thinner and serves primarily for stabilization and support, particularly for the ankle joint, rather than as a weight-bearing bone. It has a head at the proximal end that articulates with the tibia, and it forms part of the ankle joint at its distal end. This anatomical distinction is important in understanding how the two bones function together to facilitate movement and maintain stability in the lower leg.

The tibia is the main weight-bearing bone and is situated more centrally, which is why it is not considered the lateral bone. The femur is the thigh bone and is unrelated to the structure of the lower leg, while the patella is the knee cap, also not part of the lower leg bones.