Which artery unites with the deep plantar artery to complete the plantar arch?

The lateral plantar artery unites with the deep plantar artery to form the plantar arch, which is essential for the blood supply to the foot. The lateral plantar artery branches off from the posterior tibial artery and travels along the lateral side of the foot, providing vital nutrients and oxygen. When it meets the deep plantar artery, which branches from the dorsalis pedis artery, they create a continuous pathway for blood flow across the plantar surface, enabling proper functioning of the foot.

Understanding the relationship between the lateral plantar artery and the deep plantar artery is important for professionals in vascular sonography and related fields, as it highlights the interconnectedness of the circulatory system in the lower extremities. The other arteries listed, such as the medial plantar artery, anterior tibial artery, and popliteal artery, do not form this particular arch, illustrating the specific roles that different arteries play in the vascular anatomy of the foot.