Tarsal Bones' Blood Supply: The Role of Medial Tarsal Artery
The tarsal bones, a set of seven irregularly-shaped bones, are located in the hind-foot, specifically in the heel area. These bones are supplied with blood by the medial tarsal artery, which also nourishes the joints of the foot.
The medial tarsal artery, consisting of two to three arteries, originates on the outer side of the foot. It plays a crucial role in the medial malleolar arterial network, which is primarily supplied by branches of the anterior and posterior medial malleolar arteries, and the medial tarsal arteries themselves. These arteries arise from the anterior and posterior tibial arteries around the medial malleolus region of the lower leg and foot.
The medial tarsal artery begins its journey on the medial side of the foot and eventually merges into the medial malleolar network. Interestingly, the arteria dorsalis pedis, which runs along the top of the foot, also branches off into the medial tarsal artery, contributing to the blood supply of the tarsal bones and joints.
The tarsal bones, vital for foot structure and movement, rely on the medial tarsal artery for blood supply. This artery, along with its branches and the arteria dorsalis pedis, ensures the health and functionality of the foot's bones and joints.
