Tibialis anterior

The tibialis anterior (Latin: musculus tibialis anterior) is a long narrow fusiform-shaped muscle located in the anterior compartment of the leg. The anterior compartment muscles of the leg are known as the extensors, and the tibialis anterior is the main foot dorsiflexor. Also, it is the most superficial and largest muscle of the group. The tibialis anterior stretches between the tibia and bones of the foot.

Origin

The tibialis anterior muscle originates from the lateral condyle and upper two-thirds of the lateral surface of the tibia. Additionally, it arises from the interosseous membrane of the leg, deep surface of the fascia cruris and the intermuscular septum between it and the extensor digitorum longus muscle.

Insertion

The tibialis anterior inserts on the medial cuneiform bone and base of the first metatarsal bone.

Action

The tibialis anterior muscle provides dorsiflexion at the talocrural (ankle) joint and inversion of the foot at the subtalar and midtarsal (Chopart's) joints. Also, it supports the medial longitudinal arch of the foot.

Innervation

The tibialis anterior is innervated by the deep peroneal (fibular) nerve (L4 - S1) - a branch of the common peroneal (fibular) nerve.

Blood supply

The tibialis anterior muscle receives arterial blood supply mainly from the branches of the anterior tibial artery. Additionally, it is supplied by the branches of the posterior tibial artery.