Which ankle movements during the straight-leg raise test are used to test the tibial nerve?

• A. Dorsiflexion, eversion, and toe extension
• B. Dorsiflexion alone
• C. Plantarflexion
• D. Inversion

Answer: (A)

Tibial nerve tension is achieved by lengthening the nerve along its course from the back of the leg into the plantar foot. Dorsiflexion increases the distance the nerve must travel around the ankle, while eversion and toe extension further lengthen the nerve as it runs through the tarsal tunnel and into the plantar surface. This combination places traction on the tibial nerve, making it more likely to reproduce symptoms if there is irritation along its path. Other single ankle movements don’t place the same amount of stretch on the tibial nerve, so they’re less effective at biasing this nerve during the test.