The lateral malleolus lies subcutaneously and so is easily palpated. The fairly flat lateral aspect of the calcaneus also has little soft tissue covering it and can be felt throughout its extent. About 3 cm distal to the tip of the malleolus, a small prominence can be felt on the calcaneus. This is the peroneal tubercle (Fig. 16-4). The peroneus brevis tendon passes superior to the tubercle, whereas the peroneus longus passes inferiorly. Occasionally a small prominence can be palpated just posterior to the peroneal tubercle; this is the point of insertion of the calcaneofibular ligament.