Arteries are muscular, elastic tubes that form part of your body’s circulatory system. Their primary function is to transport oxygen-rich blood, along with essential nutrients and hormones, away from the heart to various tissues and organs throughout the body. This continuous delivery of blood supports cellular function and movement, particularly in areas like the legs. Without efficient arterial circulation, tissues would not receive the necessary resources to perform their roles.
The Femoral Artery
The femoral artery is the main artery supplying blood to the entire lower limb. It originates in the pelvis as a continuation of the external iliac artery, changing its name as it passes beneath the inguinal ligament, a fibrous band located near the groin. From this point, it descends along the front and inner part of the thigh.
As it travels down the thigh, the femoral artery provides blood to the muscles and tissues of the thigh. Its relatively superficial location in the upper thigh, particularly in the groin crease region, makes it accessible. Its pulse can often be felt in this area, offering a convenient point to assess blood flow to the limb.
The common femoral artery, the initial segment, divides into two main branches: the deep femoral artery (or profunda femoris) and the superficial femoral artery. The deep femoral artery supplies blood to the deeper thigh muscles, hip, buttocks, and femur. The superficial femoral artery continues its path down the leg, delivering blood to the lower leg and knee.
Major Arteries of the Lower Leg
Beyond the thigh, the femoral artery transitions into other arteries to supply the lower leg. As the superficial femoral artery approaches the back of the knee, it changes its name to the popliteal artery. This occurs as it passes through an opening in a thigh muscle called the adductor hiatus.
The popliteal artery is situated behind the knee, within a space known as the popliteal fossa, often referred to as the “knee pit.” It supplies blood to the knee joint, lower hamstring muscles, and upper shin bone. At the lower border of a muscle behind the knee, the popliteal artery divides into its primary branches for the lower leg.
These branches include the anterior tibial artery, which moves to the front of the lower leg, supplying structures there and extending into the foot as the dorsalis pedis artery. The popliteal artery also gives rise to the posterior tibial artery, which descends along the back of the lower leg, providing blood to the posterior compartment muscles and eventually reaching the sole of the foot. Additionally, a fibular (peroneal) artery branches off, supplying the lateral compartment of the leg.
Understanding Leg Circulation
Maintaining healthy leg circulation ensures tissues receive the oxygen and nutrients they need. Good blood flow is indicated by physical signs, such as warm skin and a healthy color. Normal sensation in the leg and foot also suggests adequate blood supply.
Blood flow can be assessed by checking pulses where arteries are close to the skin’s surface. The femoral artery pulse can be felt in the groin area where the thigh meets the abdomen. Further down the leg, the popliteal pulse may be felt behind the knee, though it can sometimes require firm pressure to locate.
In the foot, pulses like the dorsalis pedis artery on the top of the foot and the posterior tibial artery behind the inner ankle bone can also be checked. These pulse points offer indicators of blood moving through the lower limbs. A consistent, steady pulse at these locations suggests blood is flowing effectively.