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Extensor digitorum brevis

Region

Origin & Insertion

['Origin: Dorsal surface of calcaneus', 'Insertion: Extensor expansions of toes 2–4']

Synergistic Muscles

['Extensor digitorum longus']

Joints

['Toes 2–4']

Primary Actions

['Extends toes 2–4']

Nerve & Spinal Segment

Deep fibular (peroneal) nerve

Sacral plexus; L5–S1

Interesting

Visible as a dorsal foot bulge. [Gray’s]

Reversal of Action

Lift midfoot via toe extension

Common Dysfunctions

Difficulty lifting toes, foot dorsum discomfort

How to Stretch

Toe flexion and ankle PF.

Trigger Points

How to Strengthen

Toe raises and resistance drills.

Concentric Action

Extend toes 2–4 at MTP joint

Applications:

Facilitates dorsiflexion control and toe-off in gait

Eccentric Action

Control toe flexion

Isotonic Action

Toe lifts with resistance band

Related Conditions

['Drop foot', 'Extensor tendinitis']

Isometric Action

Hold toes in extension

Exercise Ideas

['DF with toe lift', 'Toe tap raises', 'Band extension']

Related Blogs

Images

Videos

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