Lateral plantar artery

Lateral Plantar Artery

The Lateral Plantar Artery (LPA) is a branch of the Posterior Tibial Artery that supplies blood to the lateral side of the foot. It is one of the two terminal branches of the Posterior Tibial Artery, the other being the Medial Plantar Artery.

Anatomy

The Lateral Plantar Artery originates from the Posterior Tibial Artery in the Tarsal Tunnel region of the foot. It courses laterally across the sole of the foot, passing deep to the Abductor Hallucis muscle and the Flexor Digitorum Brevis muscle. It then curves medially to form the Plantar Arch, which gives off digital branches to the toes.

Function

The primary function of the Lateral Plantar Artery is to supply blood to the lateral side of the foot. It also contributes to the formation of the Plantar Arch, which ensures adequate blood supply to the toes.

Clinical Significance

The Lateral Plantar Artery can be involved in various foot conditions. For instance, in cases of Peripheral Artery Disease, the artery can become narrowed or blocked, leading to reduced blood flow to the foot. This can result in symptoms such as pain, numbness, and in severe cases, tissue death and Gangrene.

See Also

• Posterior Tibial Artery
• Medial Plantar Artery
• Plantar Arch
• Peripheral Artery Disease

References

Lateral plantar artery Resources
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