6/16/16

Tibialis Anterior, Shin Splints, and Drop Foot

Tibialis Anterior is a long muscle of the lower leg that sits up against and just outside the shin bone, or tibia. Its origin attachment is the proximal lateral surface of the tibia and interosseous membrane. It travels down the lower leg, crosses over the front of the ankle and inserts at the medial cuneiform and base of the first metatarsal. Its job is to turn the bottom of the foot inward (invert) as well as raise the toes toward the knee (dorsiflex).

This is the primary muscle involved in shin splints. It can be overloaded by excessive running, climbing, or walking. Tibialis anterior may become “bumpy” when one is suffering from shin splints. In addition, a primary trigger point can occur in the belly of this muscle which may send pain into the ankle area, along the first metatarsal, and into the big toe.

Tibialis Anterior is also a muscle involved in “foot drop”. If the muscle is weak and a trigger point develops, it becomes difficult to raise the toes during walking. It appears as though the foot is dragging behind when stepping.

If you experience pain or weakness in the tibialis anterior or other muscles of the shin, ask your massage therapist if trigger point therapy or shiatsu might help resolve the problem.