From the Research
The tibialis anterior tendon is primarily responsible for pedal dorsiflexion. This tendon connects the tibialis anterior muscle, which runs along the anterior (front) portion of the lower leg, to the medial cuneiform and first metatarsal bones of the foot. When the tibialis anterior muscle contracts, it pulls on this tendon, causing the foot to move upward toward the shin (dorsiflexion) [ 1 ]. The tibialis anterior also contributes to inversion of the foot. Other muscles that assist with dorsiflexion include the extensor hallucis longus, extensor digitorum longus, and peroneus tertius, but the tibialis anterior provides the greatest contribution to this movement [ 2 ].
The importance of the tibialis anterior tendon in normal gait cannot be overstated, particularly during the swing phase when the foot must clear the ground [ 3 ]. Weakness or injury to this tendon can result in foot drop, a condition where the individual has difficulty lifting the front part of the foot [ 4 ]. The tibialis anterior tendon is essential for maintaining proper gait and preventing conditions such as foot drop, and its function should be prioritized in the management of foot and ankle disorders [ 5 ].
In the event of a tibialis anterior tendon rupture, surgical treatment is typically required to restore ankle dorsiflexion function and proper gait [ 2 ]. Depending on various patient-specific factors, tendon quality and excursion, and chronicity, a range of treatment options are available to manage these patients, from nonsurgical care to surgical treatment [ 1 ].
Key points to consider:
- The tibialis anterior tendon is responsible for pedal dorsiflexion
- The tendon connects the tibialis anterior muscle to the medial cuneiform and first metatarsal bones of the foot
- The tibialis anterior muscle contributes to inversion of the foot
- Other muscles that assist with dorsiflexion include the extensor hallucis longus, extensor digitorum longus, and peroneus tertius
- Weakness or injury to the tibialis anterior tendon can result in foot drop
- Surgical treatment is typically required to restore ankle dorsiflexion function and proper gait in the event of a tibialis anterior tendon rupture [ 2 ].