top of page
Quadratus plantae
Region
Origin & Insertion
['Origin: Calcaneus (medial and lateral heads)', 'Insertion: Posterolateral margin of FDL tendon']
Synergistic Muscles
['FHL', 'FDB']
Joints
['Toes 2–5']
Primary Actions
['Assists flexor digitorum longus in toe flexion']
Nerve & Spinal Segment
Lateral plantar nerve
Sacral plexus; S1–S3
Interesting
Redirects pull of FDL. [Clinically Oriented Anatomy]
Reversal of Action
Stabilize midfoot during push-off
Common Dysfunctions
Toe pull deviation, foot cramping
How to Stretch
Toe extension and dorsiflexion.
Trigger Points
How to Strengthen
Toe press with heel rise.
Concentric Action
Redirect pull of FDL, assist toe flexion
Applications:
Corrects toe trajectory in toe gripping drills and claw toe therapy
Eccentric Action
Control flexion path of lateral toes
Isotonic Action
Toe curl with neuromuscular cueing
Related Conditions
['Flat feet', 'Plantar fasciitis']
Isometric Action
Hold toe flexed under guided path
Exercise Ideas
['Towel curls', 'Short foot with toes', 'FDL band flexion']
Related Blogs
Images
Videos
bottom of page