Which muscle runs along the front of the lower leg?

The tibialis anterior is the muscle that runs along the front of the lower leg. This muscle is responsible for dorsiflexion, which is the action of raising the foot upward towards the shin. It also plays a role in inversion of the foot, helping maintain balance and stability while walking or running.

Anatomically, the tibialis anterior is located on the anterior compartment of the lower leg, sitting just lateral to the shin bone (tibia). Its position makes it crucial for movements that require lifting the foot off the ground, such as during walking or when navigating uneven surfaces.

The gastrocnemius and soleus, on the other hand, are located at the back of the lower leg and primarily function in plantar flexion, which is pushing the foot down, such as when standing on tiptoe. The fibularis muscles, found on the lateral side of the lower leg, are involved in eversion and stability of the ankle but do not run along the front of the leg. Understanding the anatomical positions and functions of these muscles helps clarify their distinctions and roles in lower leg movement.