Muscle Breakdown: Tibialis Anterior
Table of Contents
What Is the Tibialis Anterior
The Tibialis Anterior is a long, thin muscle in the lower leg. It is located on the lateral side of the Tibia and is a superficial muscle. This means that you can feel the Tibialis Anterior if you run your hand down the outside of your lower limb.
Tibialis Anterior Muscle & Cadaver
Tibialis Anterior Function
The Tibialis Anterior plays a role in many functions of the foot. These functions include,
Dorsiflexion, Inversion and Adduction of the foot
Helps to maintain the Medial Arch of the foot
Tibialis Anterior Origin And Insertion
Tibialis Anterior Origin
The Tibialis Anterior has multiple points of origin. This includes,
The lateral surface of the Tibia
Interosseous Membrane
Intermuscular Septum
Deep facia of the leg
Tibialis Anterior Insertion
The Tibialis Anterior inserts into the Cuneiform (medial and plantar surface) and the base of the 1st Metatarsal.
Tibialis Anterior Innervation
The Tibialis Anterior is innervated by the Deep Peroneal Nerve.
Tibialis Anterior Action
The Tibialis Anterior is an important muscle in many movements, especially walking. Those who have had a stroke and suffer from Hemiplegia often have a weak Tibialis Anterior which impacts their gait and results in overcompensation from other muscles. The Tibialis Anterior is also important in activities such as running, hiking and kicking.
Tibialis Anterior Pain
It is not uncommon to experience pain in the Tibialis Anterior. Most of us have heard of or suffered from shin splints (also called Anterior Tibial Stress Syndrome). This pain comes from tiny microtears to the Tibialis Anterior over time, often from running. Usually, shin splits resolve themselves with rest and ice but can result in a stress fracture if the pain persists and is left unresolved.
Tibialis Anterior Tendonitis
Tendonitis is can be a painful condition! Tibialis Anterior tendonitis can present itself as pain and/or swelling in the inner ankle or on the surface of the foot, general weakness of the ankle and more intense symptoms after activities such as walking. Tibialis Anterior tendonitis is common in adults and those with high medial arches. If you suspect that you have Tibialis Anterior tendonitis, it is important to see your physician to prevent further injury from occurring.
Treatment for Tibialis Anterior tendonitis includes rest, ice and elevation which can all be done at home. Anti-inflammatory and physical therapy can also help to relieve symptoms. Additionally, stretching the calf can help to relieve the pressure on the foot. In severe cases of Tibialis Anterior tendonitis, surgery can be done to remove the damaged tendon.
Tibialis Anterior Tendon
The Tibialis Anterior muscle ends in a long tendon on the inner side of the ankle. It is this tendon that helps to pull the foot up into dorsiflexion. Often, tendons in the body succumb to overuse injuries and they can end up inflamed and cause pain. This is known as tendonitis.
Tibialis Anterior Tendon Tear
If you are experiencing the symptoms of Tibialis Anterior tendonitis, but continue to exercise and use the muscle, you increase your risk of rupturing the tendon. A Tibialis Anterior tear is very painful and will require surgery to repair. Symptoms of a Tibialis Anterior tear are the same as Tibialis Anterior tendonitis, but you will feel sharper pain in the inner ankle and may experience bruising.
Tibialis Anterior Exercises
Seated Dorsiflexion
Toe Raises
Isometric Exercise
Seated Dorsiflexion
Anchor a resistance band around an object at ankle height. Place the other end of the band around the foot. While lying down, bring your toe towards the shin. Repeat this movement for 3 sets of 10 reps.
Toe Raises
You can perform toe raises seated or standing. Bring your toes up towards the shins, only your heel should be in contact with the floor. Repeat this movement for 3 sets of 10 reps.
Isometric Exercise
This type of exercise involves no movement at the joint. While seated in a chair, cross on foot over the other. The sole of the top foot should be pressed against the top of the bottom foot. Use the top foot to press down on the bottom foot, as you try to perform a heel raise with the bottom foot. Hold the contraction for one count and perform 3 sets of 10 reps.
Tibialis Anterior Stretches
The following stretches can help to relieve pain in the Tibialis Anterior:
Toe Drag
Kneeling Stretch
Standing Stretch
Toe Drag
While standing, point one toe downwards so that your toes are pressed on the floor. The more you press down into your toes, the greater the stretch you will feel in the anterior leg. Hold this position for 30 seconds and then switch legs.
Kneeling Stretch
Kneel on the floor on your knees with your feet tucked underneath you. ‘Sit’ on your ankles (not in-between them) and hold this position for 30 seconds.
Standing Stretch
Begin standing upright. Bend at one knee to bring your ankle up to your glutes. Use your hands to hold your ankle in place at the glute. Maintain this position for 30 seconds and then switch legs.
