Extensor Digitorum Longus

Question 1

What actions does the extensor digitorum longus contribute to?

Answer 1

The extensor digitorum longus contributes to extension of the toes and dorsiflexion of the ankle.

Question 2

Which nerve innervates the extensor digitorum longus?

Answer 2

The deep fibular nerve innervates the extensor digitorum longus.

Question 3

Where does the extensor digitorum longus arise from and insert into?

Answer 3

The extensor digitorum longus arises from the lateral condyle of the tibia; from the upper three-quarters of the anterior surface of the body of the fibula; from the upper part of the interosseous membrane; from the deep surface of the fascia; and from the intermuscular septa between it and the tibialis anterior on the medial, and the peroneal muscles on the lateral side.

The muscle passes under the superior and inferior extensor retinaculum of the foot in company with the fibularis tertius, and divides into four slips, which run forward on the dorsum of the foot and are inserted into the second and third phalanges of the four lesser toes.