Which myotome pattern is associated with ankle dorsiflexion?

The myotome pattern that is associated with ankle dorsiflexion is L4. The L4 nerve root primarily innervates the muscles responsible for lifting the foot, particularly the tibialis anterior, which facilitates dorsiflexion. This specific movement involves raising the foot upwards at the ankle joint, which is crucial in activities such as walking and running to clear the toes off the ground.

Understanding the specific contributions of the L4 myotome is important for assessing lower extremity function and diagnosing neurological injuries. In a clinical setting, a weakness in dorsiflexion could indicate an issue with the L4 nerve root, helping clinicians pinpoint the location of potential nerve damage or impairment. This functional assessment is often performed during a neurological examination to evaluate a patient’s condition.