Flexor Digitorum Longus

Description

Illustration of flexor digitorum longus

Flexor Digitorum Longus

Alternative Names

• FDL
• Flexor Digitorum Longus Muscle
• Deep Flexor of the Toes
• Long Flexor of the Toes

Origin

• Tibia (inferior to soleal line, posterior surface)
• Originates in the Deep Posterior Compartment of the Leg
• Passes through the Tarsal Tunnel

Insertion

• Bases of Distal Phalanges of Toes 2-5

Actions

• Plantar Flexion and Inversion of foot
• Flexion of MTP and IP joints of Toes 2-5

Vascular Supply

• Posterior Tibial Artery

Nerve

• Tibial Nerve (L5-S2)

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Clinical Significance

Biomechanical

• Gait & Push-Off Strength
• Medial Arch Support

Pathology

• Flexor Digitorum Longus Tendinopathy
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Claw toes
• Hammer toes

Surgical Relevance

• Tendon transfer for Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction
• Tendon transfer for Acquired Pes Planus

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See Also

• Physical Exam Ankle
• Ankle Anatomy (Main)
• Ankle Pain (Main)

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