Which artery supplies blood to the foot, located behind the medial ankle?

The correct answer is the posterior tibial artery, which is responsible for supplying blood to the foot, particularly the areas located behind the medial ankle. The artery branches off from the popliteal artery, which is situated behind the knee. As it descends down the leg, it runs posterior to the medial malleolus (the bony prominence on the inner side of the ankle).

The posterior tibial artery further divides into the medial and lateral plantar arteries, which supply blood to the corresponding sides of the foot. Understanding the anatomy and the blood supply pathways is critical for assessing injuries and conditions related to the foot and lower extremities, particularly in emergency scenarios where circulation might be compromised.

The anterior tibial artery primarily supplies the anterior compartment of the leg and is located more toward the front of the leg; the femoral artery is the main vessel supplying the thigh and does not directly supply the foot; the popliteal artery is located behind the knee joint and gives rise to the anterior and posterior tibial arteries, but does not supply the foot on its own.