Trigger Points in the Tibialis Posterior Explained
Posted by Stuart Hinds on
Stuart Hinds explains trigger points in the tibialis posterior
Latin "tibia" = "pipe" or "flute"/"shinbone"; "posterior" = "behind"
The tibialis posterior is the deepest muscle on the back of the leg. It helps maintain the arches of the foot.
ORIGIN
Lateral part of posterior surface of tibia. Upper two-thirds of posterior surface of fibula. Most of interosseous membrane.
INSERTION
Tuberosity of navicular. By fibrous expansions to sustentaculum tali, three cuneiforms, cuboid, and bases of 2nd, 3rd, and 4th metatarsals.
ACTION
Inverts foot. Assists in plantar flexion of ankle joint. Antagonist: tibialis posterior.
Tibialis Posterior - Common Trigger Point Site
NERVE
Tibial nerve, L(4), 5, S1. BASIC FUNCTIONAL
MOVEMENT
Examples: standing on tiptoes; pushing down car pedals.
REFERRED PAIN PATTERNS
Vague calf pain, with increased intensity along the achilles tendon to the heel/sole of the foot.
Tibialis Posterior Trigger Point - Typical Pain Pattern
INDICATIONS
Achilles tendonitis, calf/heel pain, plantar fasciitis, pain running/walking on uneven surfaces, Morton’s neuroma, foot numbness in a patch around the metatarsals, toe cramps, hammer/claw toe, tarsal tunnel syndrome.
CAUSES
Arthritic toes, poor footwear (heels) or orthotics, sports (e.g. walking, jogging, running, sprinting), prolonged driving (pedals).
DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS
Shin splints. Posterior tibial compartment syndrome (deep). Tendon rupture. Tenosynovitis. Achilles tendonitis. Deep vein thrombosis. Cardiovascular.
CONNECTIONS
Flexor digitorum longus, peroneal muscles, flexor hallucis longus
Treating Runner's Knee NAT Foundation Course
Treating Hip Pain & Dysfunction NAT Master Course
About the author
Stuart Hinds is one of Australia’s leading soft tissue therapists, with over 27 years of experience as a practitioner, working with elite sports athletes, supporting Olympic teams, educating and mentoring others as well as running a highly successful clinic in Geelong.
Stuart has a strong following of practitioners across Australia and globally who tap into his expertise as a soft-tissue specialist. He delivers a range of highly sought after seminars across Australia, supported by online videos, webinars and one-on-one mentoring to help support his colleagues to build successful businesses.
In 2016, Stuart was awarded a lifetime membership to Massage & Myotherapy Australia for his significant support and contribution to the industry.
This trigger point therapy blog is intended to be used for information purposes only and is not intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment or to substitute for a medical diagnosis and/or treatment rendered or prescribed by a physician or competent healthcare professional. This information is designed as educational material, but should not be taken as a recommendation for treatment of any particular person or patient. Always consult your physician if you think you need treatment or if you feel unwell.