Tibialis Posterior

The tibialis posterior is a crucial muscle for athletes, playing a vital role in maintaining foot arch stability and overall lower limb mechanics. This deep muscle of the calf is pivotal in supporting the medial longitudinal arch of the foot, which is essential for efficient force distribution during dynamic activities such as running and jumping.

Its function not only aids in optimal athletic performance but also serves as a key factor in preventing injuries, particularly shin splints, which are common among athletes who engage in repetitive impact sports. Understanding the anatomy and function of the tibialis posterior can provide valuable insights into enhancing performance and minimizing injury risk.

Arch
Rectus Abdominis

Tibialis
Posterior

Anatomy

[Origin]

  • Interosseous membrane
  • Posterior surface of tibia inferior to soleal line
  • Posterior surface of fibula

[Insertion]

  • Tuberosity of navicular
  • Cuneiform
  • Cuboid
  • Sustentaculum tali of calcaneus
  • Base of 2nd, 3rd, and 4th metatarsals

[Action]

  • Plantarflexion
  • Foot Inversion

Clinical Relevance

Arch of the Foot and Shin Splints

It is a key stabilizing muscle supporting the medial arch of the foot. Tibialis posterior dysfunction can lead to flat feet and weak arch control in adults.

Research suggests that increased stiffness in the flexor digitorum longus and tibialis posterior muscles may be associated with Medial tibial stress syndrome (Shin Splints)

~ Evidence-Based Exercises ~

According to an EMG study, the exercises that demonstrated significant muscle contractions of Tibialis Posterior are;

  • Ankle Inversion
  • Heel Raises with a ball between heels
  • Single Leg Calf Raises

Inversion

Inversion

Heel
Raises

Heel Raises

Single Leg Calf Raises

Single Leg Calf Raises

< Reference >

  • Keith L. Moore, Anne M. R. Agur, Arthur F. Dalley. Moore Clinically Oriented Anatomy 7th Edition, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2013
  • Saeki J, Nakamura M, Nakao S, Fujita K, Yanase K, Ichihashi N. Muscle stiffness of posterior lower leg in runners with a history of medial tibial stress syndrome. Scandinavian Med Sci Sports. 2018;28(1):246-251. doi:1111/sms.12862
  • Alam F, Raza S, Moiz JA, Bhati P, Anwer S, Alghadir A. Effects of selective strengthening of tibialis posterior and stretching of iliopsoas on navicular drop, dynamic balance, and lower limb muscle activity in pronated feet: A randomized clinical trial. The Physician and Sportsmedicine. 2019;47(3):301-311. doi:1080/00913847.2018.1553466
  • Kulig K, Burnfield JM, Requejo SM, Sperry M, Terk M. Selective Activation of Tibialis Posterior: Evaluation by Magnetic Resonance Imaging: Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise. Published online May 2004:862-867. doi:1249/01.MSS.0000126385.12402.2E