Dorsalflexion

Dorsiflexion is the movement that decreases the angle between the dorsum of the foot and the anterior leg, bringing the toes upward toward the shin. It occurs mainly at the ankle's talocrural joint and is the opposite of plantarflexion; during gait, dorsiflexion helps clear the foot during the swing phase and allows smooth tibial progression over the foot during stance. The range of motion is typically about 0 to 20 degrees with the knee extended; the knee flexion can increase available dorsiflexion by reducing gastrocnemius tension.

The primary dorsiflexors are the tibialis anterior, extensor hallucis longus, and extensor digitorum longus, with the peroneus tertius contributing a smaller role. These muscles are innervated mainly by the deep peroneal (fibular) nerve. Blood supply comes from the anterior tibial artery.

Clinically, dorsiflexion is assessed with ankle range-of-motion testing or goniometry. Limitations of dorsiflexion can arise from gastrocnemius-soleus tightness, Achilles tendon contracture, ankle joint stiffness, or swelling. Weak dorsiflexion, often due to injury of the common peroneal nerve or its deep branches, can cause foot drop and compensatory gait patterns.

In rehabilitation and assessment, restoring adequate dorsiflexion ROM and strength is important, including calf stretching to reduce passive plantarflexion resistance and targeted strengthening of dorsiflexors. Functional implications include walking, running, and stair negotiation, where proper dorsiflexion improves foot clearance and forward progression.