GENERAL INFORMATION
The tibialis anterior is a muscle located in the anterior compartment of the lower limb. It is one of the key muscles involved in dorsiflexion and inversion of the foot. The tibialis anterior plays an important role in walking, running, and maintaining proper foot alignment during various activities.
ORIGIN
The tibialis anterior muscle originates from two sites:
- The lateral condyle and proximal half of the tibia.
- The interosseous membrane connects the tibia and fibula.
INSERTION POINT
The tibialis anterior muscle inserts onto the medial cuneiform bone and the base of the first metatarsal bone, which is part of the midfoot region. Consequently, this insertion allows the muscle to perform its actions on the foot effectively.
MAJOR ARTERIES
The tibialis anterior muscle receives its blood supply primarily from the anterior tibial artery, which is a branch of the popliteal artery. This artery provides oxygenated blood to the muscle to support its function.
NEURAL INNERVATION
The tibialis anterior muscle is innervated by the deep fibular (peroneal) nerve, which arises from the common fibular (peroneal) nerve. This nerve provides both motor innervation for muscle contraction and sensory innervation for transmitting sensations from the skin of the anterior lower leg.
TRIGGER POINT
Trigger points may develop in the tibialis anterior muscle, causing localised pain and tenderness. These trigger points can be associated with muscle overuse, strain, or postural imbalances. Therefore, addressing these trigger points is important for managing pain and ensuring proper muscle function.
CONCENTRIC FUNCTION
The concentric function of the tibialis anterior is to contract and actively generate force during dorsiflexion of the ankle. This action involves lifting the foot and toes upward toward the shin, which is crucial for activities such as walking and running.
ECCENTRIC FUNCTION
During certain movements, such as the controlled lowering of the foot from dorsiflexion, the tibialis anterior muscle functions eccentrically to resist the force of gravity and control the descent of the foot. As a result, this eccentric function helps in maintaining balance and stability.
ISOMETRIC FUNCTION
The tibialis anterior muscle can contract isometrically to stabilise the ankle joint and maintain the foot in a neutral position, preventing excessive dorsiflexion or inversion. Consequently, this isometric function is essential for postural control and stability.
RELATED MUSCLE-SCIENTIFIC NAMES
The Tibialis Anterior muscle is known by the following scientific name:
- Tibialis Anterior Muscle
ANTAGONIST MUSCLES
- Gastrocnemius: Located in the posterior compartment of the lower limb, responsible for plantar flexion (pointing the foot downward), opposing the dorsiflexion action of the Tibialis Anterior.
COMMON INJURIES
- Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome): Pain along the inner edge of the shinbone caused by inflammation due to overuse, often experienced by runners and athletes.
- Tendinitis or Tendon Rupture: Inflammation or tearing of the tendon, usually due to overuse or sudden injury, leading to pain and impaired movement.
- Muscle Strains or Tears: Overstretching or excessive force can cause muscle fibres to tear, resulting in pain and reduced function.
EXERCISES
- Dorsiflexion Exercises: Perform ankle dorsiflexion against resistance bands or while seated with weights on the feet, lifting the toes towards the shin. Strengthens the Tibialis Anterior and improves dorsiflexion strength.
- Ankle Alphabet Exercises: Sit with legs extended and use the foot to trace each letter of the alphabet in the air. Enhances mobility and strength in the Tibialis Anterior and surrounding muscles.
- Heel Walks: Walk on the heels for a set distance or duration. Targets and strengthens the Tibialis Anterior by promoting dorsiflexion.
- Toe Raises: Stand with feet flat on the ground and lift the toes off the floor while keeping the heels planted. It engages the Tibialis Anterior and improves foot strength.
- Toe Walks: Walk on the toes for a set distance or duration. Enhances balance and strength in the lower leg muscles, including the Tibialis Anterior.
STRETCHES
- Ankle Dorsiflexion Stretch: Sit with legs extended, loop a towel around the ball of the foot, and gently pull the toes towards the shin. Stretches the Tibialis Anterior, improving ankle flexibility.
- Soleus Stretch: Stand with one foot back and slightly bent, and push the heel into the ground. Targets the deeper calf muscles, including the soleus and the lower leg.
- Towel Stretch: Sit with legs extended, loop a towel around the foot, and gently pull towards you. Stretches the lower leg muscles, including the Tibialis Anterior.
- Standing Shin Stretch: Stand and cross one leg over the other, gently bend the back knee to stretch the front of the shin. Directly targets the Tibialis Anterior, improving flexibility.
- Seated Shin Stretch: Sit on the heels with toes pointed back and gently lean back to increase the stretch. Stretches the front of the lower leg and improves muscle flexibility.