Posterior tibial vein

Looks like

Paired deep veins running with the posterior tibial artery in the deep back of the lower leg.

What it does

Drain the sole of the foot and deep calf into the popliteal vein; the calf pump squeezes them with each step.

Keeping it well

A frequent site of deep vein thrombosis, especially after surgery, long flights or immobility; calf swelling and pain need assessment.

Related conditions

• Achilles tendon rupture
• Chronic venous insufficiency
• Clotting disorders (thrombophilia & APS)
• Compartment syndrome
• Deep vein thrombosis
• Growing pains
• Lymphangitis
• Lymphatic filariasis (elephantiasis)
• Lymphoedema
• Restless legs syndrome
• Superficial thrombophlebitis
• Varicose veins
• Venomous snakebite