How do you stretch the flexor digitorum longus?
Andrew Mclaughlin
Updated on March 02, 2026
A stretch can be performed by pulling the toes into a extended position and the ankle into a dorsiflexed position. Similar to strengthening, a towel may be useful if the patient is struggling to reach forward. It can be wrapped around the toes and ball of the foot.
What is the treatment for extensor digitorum longus muscle strain?
Extensor digitorium longus tends to be overactive and tight for an inhibited Tibialis anterior, so stretching and myofascial release of the muscle together with activation tibialis anterior is indicated to regain muscle balance.
What does the flexor digitorum longus do?
Due to its attachments, flexor digitorum longus performs its action in four different joints; talocrural (ankle joint), talocalcaneal (subtalar joint), metatarsophalangeal and interphalangeal joints. The main function of this muscle is the flexion of the foot and toes.
How do you test flexor digitorum longus?
To test the flexor digitorum longus muscle, you want to eliminate the effects of other muscles and this is fortunately easy to do as it is the only muscle that plantarflexes the distal phalanges of the toes. Just ask the patient to curl the toes.
Where is the flexor digitorum?
forearm
Flexor digitorum profundus is a fusiform muscle located deep within the anterior (flexor) compartment of the forearm. Along with the flexor pollicis longus and pronator quadratus muscles, it comprises the deep flexor compartment of the forearm.
Can you pull your extensor digitorum longus?
Tear of the extensor digitorum longus and its fascia is a very rare acute ankle injury. Although acute inversion injuries of the ankle generally result in a sprain of the lateral ligaments, most commonly, the anterior talo-fibular ligament, injuries to tendinous structures and eversion muscles may also be associated.
What movement does the extensor digitorum longus?
The extensor digitorum longus muscle is a thin, long muscle of the front shin, ankle, foot, and toes (except for the big toe). This muscle allows you to extend your toes (bend them upward) and dorsiflex your feet (bend them upward through the ankle joint).
What is the difference between the flexor digitorum longus and the extensor digitorum longus?
The extensor digitorum longus is a pennate muscle, situated at the lateral part of the front of the leg….
| Extensor digitorum longus muscle | |
|---|---|
| Artery | anterior tibial artery |
| Nerve | deep fibular nerve |
| Actions | extension of toes and dorsiflexion of ankle |
| Antagonist | Flexor digitorum longus, Flexor digitorum brevis |
What is the flexor digitorum longus?
The flexor digitorum longus is a long, thin muscle found in the lower half of the leg. The movements produced by the flexor digitorum longus include plantar flexion, or pointing your toes; inversion of the foot, or tilting the sole of your foot inwards; and flexion of the toes, helping you grip the ground as you run or walk.
How do you do the flexor digitorum profundus stretch?
Release the contraction under control by allowing your fingers to extend. Repeat the motion for 2-3 sets of 10-12 reps. Pairing the flexor digitorum profundus stretch with one of the two flexor digitorum profundus exercises is a great way to relieve muscular tension while simultaneously building strength.
What is the best flexor digitorum exercise?
Hand grip squeezes are the ideal flexor digitorum exercise if you can’t get to a gym. That said, it’s hard to beat the convenience and simplicity of this exercise. So let’s get into it. Hold a handgripper in your hand.
How can I relieve flexor digitorum longus muscle pain?
Gentle stretching will assist in relieving your flexor digitorum longus muscle pain and can help speed up your recovery. Gentle stretching will work to encourage circulation and blood flow to tissues, reducing muscle stiffness and spasm.
