What is dorsiflexion?

Dorsiflexion is defined as the movement that involves raising the foot and pulling the toes toward the shin. This action occurs at the ankle joint and involves the contraction of the muscles at the front of the lower leg, specifically the tibialis anterior. This movement is crucial for activities such as walking and running, as it allows the heel to strike the ground first and promotes a proper gait.

Understanding dorsiflexion is important in various fields such as physical therapy, sports medicine, and anatomy, as it plays a fundamental role in lower limb function and stability. It is often contrasted with plantarflexion, which is the movement that points the toes away from the shin. Recognizing these movements can help prevent injuries and improve athletic performance by ensuring proper biomechanics during physical activities.