The spelling of "musculus extensor digitorum longus" may seem daunting, but it can be broken down phonetically. The initial sound "m" is followed by "uh-s-k-yoo-l-uhs," then "ehks-ten-saw-r" for "extensor." "Dih-ji-taw-r-uhm" represents "digitorum," while "lawng-uhs" is used for the final word "longus." The entire word is pronounced as "MUHS-kyoo-luhs ehks-TEN-sawr dih-ji-TAW-r-uhm LAWN-guhs." This Latin term refers to a calf muscle that works to extend the toes and lift the foot.
The musculus extensor digitorum longus is a skeletal muscle located in the lower leg region, specifically in the anterior (front) compartment. It is one of the extensor muscles responsible for various movements and functions of the foot.
This muscle is long and slender in appearance, arising from the upper two-thirds of the medial surface of the fibula bone and the interosseous membrane, which is the fibrous tissue connecting the tibia and fibula. As it descends, it gives rise to four long tendons, one for each of the toes, which run through the foot and connect to the bones of the toes.
Functionally, the musculus extensor digitorum longus is primarily involved in extending (straightening) the toes and dorsiflexing (lifting) the foot at the ankle joint. It works in coordination with other synergistic muscles to maintain balance, especially during walking, running, and other activities that require proper foot positioning and support.
In addition to its primary functions, the extensor digitorum longus muscle also plays a role in stabilizing the ankle joint and assisting in inversion (turning the sole inwards). It also contributes to the overall muscular strength and coordination of the lower leg, allowing for efficient locomotion and movement.
M. extensor longus digitorum; origin, external tuberosity of tibia, upper two-thirds of anterior surface of fibula; insertion, by four tendons to the dorsal surfaces of the 2d to 5th toes; nerve supply, deep branch of peroneal; action, extends the four outer toes.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.