Dorsum of the Foot

Question 1

What is the dorsum of the foot like?

Answer 1

The dorsum of the foot (anterior aspect) is similar to that found in the upper limb.

It has loose skin, compared to the plantar surface, and has a number of structures passing through the area heading distally to the foot and ankle.

Question 2

The lesser saphenous vein ascends where?

Answer 2

Ascends on the lateral aspect of the leg, and drains into the popiteal vein

Question 3

The greater saphenous vein ascends where?

Answer 3

On the medial aspect of the leg and thigh and drains into the femoral vein.

Question 4

Answer 4

Question 5

2 pulses can be felt in and around the foot and ankle area?

Answer 5

The dorsalis pedis is the continuation of the anterior tibial artery and is palpated between the 1^st and 2^nd metatarsal bones. Feel for it on your foot, and try and trace it proximally as it heads deep into the anterior compartment of the leg

The posterior tibial pulse is palpated behind the medial malleolus it is the continuation of the posteriior tibial artery.