Anterior tibial and dorsalis pedis artery
As the anterior tibial artery passes between the medial and lateral malleoli to enter the dorsum of the foot, it becomes known as the dorsalis pedis artery. The location at which the artery changes names is usually said to be the inferior border of the superior extensor retinaculum. The dorsalis pedis artery passes across the dorsum of the foot between the tendons of extensor hallucis longus and extensor digitorum longus.
Its pulse is best palpated by placing two or three fingers over the dorsal aspect of the cuneiforms, immediately lateral to the tendon of extensor hallucis longus. Given the superficial nature of this artery, only light pressure needs to be applied. Remember: studies of normal anatomical variation have shown that the dorsalis pedis artery is absent in 10-12% of individuals. Some individuals may also display variance in the course of dorsalis pedis.