Lower limb
Tibialis Anterior
Musculus tibialis anterior
- Origin
- Lateral surface of the tibia and the interosseous membrane
- Insertion
- Medial cuneiform bone and the base of the first metatarsal
- Function
- Dorsiflexion and inversion of the foot
- Innervation
- Deep fibular nerve (L4-L5)
- Movement & chain
- Lifts the foot during the swing phase of gait and eccentrically decelerates the foot immediately after heel contact (prevents foot slap).
- Palpation
- Easily felt as a firm cord lateral to the tibial border, just below the knee, during resisted dorsiflexion.
- Clinical
- Weakness (e.g. with fibular nerve injury) causes foot drop (steppage gait); medial tibial stress syndrome (shin splints) can involve this muscle.
- Segmental innervation
- Deep fibular nerve, L4-L5.
- In clinical practice
- Diabetic foot inspection and pressure ulcer prevention; monitor for friction points from footwear or bedding and ensure correct anti-embolism stocking fit.
- Region in the model
- Lower limb