Medial tarsal arteries

Medial Tarsal Arteries

The Medial Tarsal Arteries are small arteries that supply blood to the medial aspect of the foot. They originate from the Dorsalis pedis artery, a major artery of the lower limb.

Anatomy

The medial tarsal arteries typically arise as a group of small branches from the dorsalis pedis artery, just as it passes over the dorsum of the foot. They course medially across the dorsum of the foot, supplying the medial aspect of the tarsal bones and the overlying skin and fascia.

The dorsalis pedis artery and its branches. The medial tarsal arteries are labeled at right.

Function

The primary function of the medial tarsal arteries is to supply oxygenated blood to the medial aspect of the foot. This includes the medial tarsal bones, the overlying skin, and the fascia.

Clinical Significance

The medial tarsal arteries, like other small arteries of the foot, can be affected by peripheral vascular disease, a common condition in which the arteries become narrowed or blocked. This can lead to pain, ulcers, and in severe cases, gangrene and amputation.

See Also

• Dorsalis pedis artery
• Tarsal bones
• Peripheral vascular disease