MuscleLeg — anterior compartment
Extensor digitorum longus
Latin: M. extensor digitorum longus
Location: Leg
View the extensor digitorum longus in 3DOrigin
Lateral tibial condyle, upper fibula and interosseous membrane.
Insertion
Extensor expansions of toes 2–5.
Action
Extends the lateral four toes and dorsiflexes the ankle; a peroneus tertius slip braces the lateral foot.
Nerve supply
Deep peroneal nerve (L5–S1).
Blood supply
Anterior tibial artery.
Clinical relevance
Deep peroneal nerve palsy weakens it with tibialis anterior, causing foot drop; imbalance between it and the intrinsic foot muscles contributes to hammer and claw toes.
Educational anatomy reference, not medical advice. About this content.