Posterior Tibial Artery

arteria tibialis posterior

The posterior tibial artery supplies the posterior leg compartment and the sole of the foot through its medial and lateral plantar branches. Its pulse is palpable midway between the medial malleolus and the calcaneus and is a standard component of peripheral vascular examination. In the tarsal tunnel it travels with the tibial nerve and can be compressed in tarsal tunnel syndrome.

Region: Lower Leg

Anatomical Data

Origin, Insertion & Supply

Origin	Popliteal artery at the lower border of the popliteus

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

The posterior tibial pulse is one of the two foot pulses routinely assessed in peripheral arterial disease examination alongside the dorsalis pedis pulse. Absence of both foot pulses with an ankle brachial index below 0.5 indicates severe peripheral arterial disease requiring revascularisation assessment. The posterior tibial artery is the primary source of perforator flaps for lower limb reconstruction.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Posterior Tibial Artery Injury

Vascular injury from tibial fracture or penetrating trauma causing posterior compartment ischaemia, requiring urgent vascular assessment and repair to prevent compartment syndrome and foot ischaemia.