Which muscle is located in the anterior compartment of the leg and is primarily responsible for dorsiflexion of the foot?

• A. Gastrocnemius
• B. Fibularis longus
• C. Tibialis anterior
• D. Soleus

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the anatomical location of the anterior compartment of the leg. The anterior compartment is located at the front of the lower leg and contains muscles responsible for dorsiflexion (lifting the foot upward).
2. Step 2: Review the primary function of dorsiflexion. Dorsiflexion involves decreasing the angle between the dorsum (top) of the foot and the shin, which is essential for walking and maintaining balance.
3. Step 3: Identify the muscles in the anterior compartment of the leg. The key muscles include the tibialis anterior, extensor digitorum longus, and extensor hallucis longus. Among these, the tibialis anterior is the primary muscle responsible for dorsiflexion.
4. Step 4: Compare the listed options. Gastrocnemius and soleus are located in the posterior compartment of the leg and are responsible for plantarflexion (pointing the foot downward). Fibularis longus is in the lateral compartment and assists with eversion of the foot, not dorsiflexion.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the tibialis anterior is the correct answer because it is located in the anterior compartment and is primarily responsible for dorsiflexion of the foot.