The inferior extensor retinaculum is a Y-shaped thickening of the crural fascia over the dorsal ankle, arising laterally from the calcaneus and dividing into an upper band to the medial malleolus and a lower band to the plantar fascia. It retains the extensor tendons (tibialis anterior, EHL, EDL, fibularis tertius) in their sheaths as they cross the ankle.
Retains the four extensor tendons against the ankle joint during dorsiflexion, preventing bowstringing and maintaining tendon efficiency.
The inferior extensor retinaculum is released during anterior ankle arthroscopy portals and in surgical treatment of anterior ankle impingement. The deep peroneal nerve and anterior tibial artery pass deep to the retinaculum and may be compressed causing anterior tarsal tunnel syndrome. Retinacular tightness contributes to extensor tendon impingement in dorsiflexion.
Compression of the deep peroneal nerve under the inferior extensor retinaculum producing dorsal foot numbness and weakness of the intrinsic extensors, associated with tight footwear and ganglion cysts.
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