Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Extensor digitorum longus muscle

The extensor digitorum longus muscle (EDL) is a long, thin, located in the anterior compartment of the lower leg, primarily responsible for extending the lateral four toes (digits 2–5) at the metatarsophalangeal and interphalangeal joints while also contributing to ankle dorsiflexion and foot eversion. This muscle originates from the lateral condyle of the , the medial surface of the proximal , and the upper portion of the between the and . Its tendon divides into four slips after passing beneath the superior and inferior extensor retinacula at the ankle, with each slip inserting into the base of the middle phalanx and distal phalanx of the respective via the dorsal digital expansion. Positioned as the most lateral muscle in the anterior compartment, the EDL lies adjacent to the tibialis anterior medially and the peroneus tertius (when present) laterally, with the anterior tibial and deep peroneal passing anteriorly between it and the tibialis anterior. Innervated by the deep peroneal (fibular) nerve (L4–L5, S1), the EDL receives motor branches in the proximal third of the leg, enabling coordinated action during walking and running. Its blood supply is derived mainly from the anterior tibial artery proximally and the distally, with additional branches to the tendons from the anterior lateral malleolar, lateral tarsal, and digital arteries. Functionally, the EDL facilitates toe extension to clear the foot during the swing phase of and supports ankle dorsiflexion to prevent , while its eversion component aids in maintaining balance on uneven terrain. Clinically, or to the EDL—often from deep peroneal compression or anterior —can lead to impaired toe extension and compensatory overuse of adjacent muscles, potentially contributing to conditions like or abnormalities.

Anatomy

Origin

The extensor digitorum longus is a unipennate muscle in the anterior compartment of the , characterized by muscle fibers attaching obliquely to one side of a central , which enhances its force generation for extension. It originates primarily from the inferior aspect of the lateral condyle of the , providing an initial attachment point on the proximal tibia. The muscle also arises from the upper two-thirds to three-fourths of the medial surface of the shaft, which faces the and forms the bulk of its proximal attachment along the lateral aspect of the . Additional fibers connect to the superior portion of the anterior surface of the , the fibrous sheet spanning between the and that stabilizes the compartment and transmits forces between the bones. Further origins include the overlying (fascia cruris) and the anterior intermuscular septum, which anchor the muscle to surrounding soft tissues and dividing the compartments. These multiple attachment sites collectively position the extensor digitorum longus laterally within the anterior compartment of the , situated deep and lateral to the , allowing it to contribute to dorsiflexion and toe extension from a broad proximal base.

Insertion

The extensor digitorum longus muscle terminates distally through a common that divides into four distinct slips within the inferior extensor retinaculum, each encased in a synovial sheath as it descends toward the dorsum of the foot. These slips correspond to the lateral four toes (digits 2–5) and fan out over the proximal phalanges, forming triangular digital expansions known as extensor hoods. Within each extensor hood, the tendon divides into a central slip and two lateral slips. The central slip inserts into the base of the middle phalanx, while the two lateral slips merge and attach to the base of the distal phalanx, enabling extension at the interphalangeal joints. For the second through fourth toes, the medial portions of these extensor hoods receive contributions from the tendons of the , blending to reinforce the expansions. In contrast, the slip to the fifth toe typically lacks such reinforcement, functioning independently via its own extensor hood attachment to the middle and distal phalanges.

Course and relations

The extensor digitorum longus muscle occupies the lateral aspect of the anterior compartment of the leg, where its fleshy belly gradually narrows into a long, cord-like in the distal third of the leg, descending anteriorly toward the ankle joint. This courses deep to the superior extensor retinaculum—a transverse fibrous band located approximately 1 cm superior to the ankle joint—and passes through the lateral compartment of the inferior extensor retinaculum, a Y-shaped structure inferior to the malleoli that maintains alignment during . Throughout its course in the anterior compartment, the extensor digitorum longus lies lateral to the tibialis anterior and extensor hallucis longus muscles while being positioned medial to the ; the and anterior tibial vessels travel parallel alongside it, with the vessels specifically interposed between the tibialis anterior and the extensor digitorum longus. Just distal to the inferior extensor retinaculum, the tendon bifurcates into four distinct slips encased in a common synovial sheath, which then fan out across the dorsum of the foot to reach the lesser toes without any transverse displacement at the ankle joint level.

Variations

The extensor digitorum longus muscle exhibits several anatomical variations, particularly in the number and distribution of its tendinous slips to the toes. Extra slips may originate from the muscle belly or its tendons, inserting onto adjacent structures such as the bases of the metatarsals, the , or the dorsal interossei muscles. For instance, accessory tendinous slips have been documented inserting into the joint capsule of the fifth metatarsophalangeal joint or the dorsal aponeurosis of the fifth . Similar slips connecting to the or the first dorsal interosseous muscle have also been reported, providing additional to the extensor apparatus. A rare variation involves an accessory slip extending to the great toe (first ), originating from the EDL or adjacent and inserting into the extensor of the hallux, as observed bilaterally in isolated cadaveric cases. or absence of slips occurs less frequently, with the to the fourth toe showing the greatest variability; reports include bifurcated slips or complete absence, potentially leading to atypical extensor contributions from neighboring tendons. These variations are typically but have been identified through routine cadaveric examinations.

Innervation and blood supply

Innervation

The extensor digitorum longus muscle is primarily innervated by the deep branch of the fibular (peroneal) nerve, which provides motor supply to enable its contraction and extension functions. This nerve branch arises from the near the fibular head and penetrates the to enter the anterior compartment of the , where it courses along the anterior surface of the , deep to the extensor digitorum longus muscle belly, before distributing branches directly to the muscle. The travels in close association with the anterior tibial artery, which provides accompanying vascular supply to the region. The spinal root contributions to this innervation originate from the L4, L5, and S1 segments of the , with motor fibers responsible for innervating the muscle fibers of the extensor digitorum longus. These motor axons facilitate precise control over dorsiflexion and toe extension by synapsing at neuromuscular junctions within the muscle.

Blood supply

The extensor digitorum longus muscle receives its primary arterial supply from the anterior tibial artery, which provides muscular branches that nourish the muscle throughout its course in the anterior compartment of the leg. These branches, including smaller perforating vessels, accompany the deep peroneal nerve along the , ensuring coordinated vascular and neural support. The proximal portion of the muscle is supplied by the anterior tibial artery directly, while the distal portion receives contributions from the fibular (peroneal) artery via its perforating branches. Venous drainage follows the arterial pattern via paired anterior tibial veins, which collect blood from the anterior compartment muscles, including the extensor digitorum longus, and ascend alongside the artery. These veins receive tributaries from the muscle's venae comitantes and drain into the popliteal vein at the level of the after uniting with the posterior tibial veins. The vascular network parallels the muscle's path from its origin on the and to its tendinous insertions on the , with rich anastomoses between anterior tibial, fibular, and posterior tibial branches enhancing collateral circulation. This arrangement is crucial for maintaining oxygenation and nutrient delivery during high-demand activities such as running, where repeated dorsiflexion and toe extension increase metabolic needs.

Function

Actions

The extensor digitorum longus muscle primarily functions to extend the four lateral toes (digits 2 through 5) at the metatarsophalangeal (MTP), , and joints through its tendons, which insert into the expansions of these digits. This extension action straightens the toes, countering flexion and aiding in toe-off phases of locomotion by lifting the toes upward. Contraction of the muscle also produces dorsiflexion at the ankle joint (talocrural joint), achieved as its tendon courses anteriorly under the superior extensor retinaculum and contributes to elevating the foot via the mechanism. Due to its lateral positioning relative to the ankle's axis of rotation, the muscle secondarily contributes to eversion of the foot, supplementing the primary evertors like the . The extensor digitorum longus coordinates with the to facilitate comprehensive dorsiflexion of the foot, where the former handles the lateral toes and the latter extends the hallux (digit 1), together ensuring balanced lift of the entire forefoot. It acts antagonistically to the flexor digitorum longus, which flexes the same toes at the MTP, , and joints, and to the flexor digitorum brevis, which flexes the MTP and joints, maintaining reciprocal control over toe positioning.

Role in movement

The extensor digitorum longus (EDL) muscle plays a crucial role in the swing phase of , where it activates to contribute to ankle dorsiflexion and extension, elevating the foot and toes to ensure adequate clearance and prevent dragging on the ground. This coordinated action, peaking around mid-swing, works alongside the tibialis anterior to facilitate smooth forward progression of the limb. During heel strike and the early stance phase, the EDL provides eccentric support as a dorsiflexor, helping to control plantarflexion and ensure stable, controlled foot placement upon ground contact. Its activity in this phase, though secondary to the tibialis anterior, aids in absorbing impact and maintaining during initial weight transfer. In dynamic activities such as running, , and , the EDL supports rapid dorsiflexion to propel the body forward or upward, enhancing and stability on uneven surfaces. When the tibialis anterior is weakened, the EDL often compensates through increased recruitment and overactivity to maintain dorsiflexion, which can lead to muscle tightness and potential overuse issues. The EDL interacts synergistically with other anterior compartment muscles, such as the tibialis anterior and extensor hallucis longus, to generate balanced forces across the ankle and anterior tibiofibular structures, ensuring efficient and neutral foot motion during .

Clinical significance

Injuries and pathology

Tendonitis of the extensor digitorum longus (EDL) tendon is a common overuse injury, particularly among runners, resulting from repetitive dorsiflexion and extension during activities like uphill running or on uneven surfaces. This condition often presents with along the anterior aspect of the ankle and top of the foot, accompanied by localized swelling and tenderness, which can worsen with activity. In contrast to its normal role in extension and ankle dorsiflexion, EDL tendonitis disrupts these functions, leading to discomfort during . Muscle herniation of the EDL, often through acquired or congenital fascial defects, is a frequent cause of chronic anterior leg pain and can mimic other conditions like . It typically presents as a visible or palpable bulge along the lateral leg during muscle contraction or standing, exacerbated by exercise, and may result from or repetitive . Ruptures of the EDL are rare and typically occur following traumatic events, such as acute ankle inversion injuries in sports. These injuries often involve partial or complete tears at the myotendinous junction, resulting in significant pain, swelling, and an inability to actively extend the lateral toes (digits 2-5). Traumatic ruptures differ from spontaneous ones by their association with high-force mechanisms, like sudden plantar flexion combined with inversion, and may involve fascial defects allowing muscle herniation. The EDL is part of the anterior compartment of the leg and can be affected in , where elevated intracompartmental pressure compromises blood flow, leading to muscle ischemia and severe pain. This condition, often exertional in athletes, causes disproportionate pain exacerbated by passive plantar flexion, with the EDL's involvement contributing to weakness in toe extension and dorsiflexion if untreated. Pressures exceeding 30 mmHg can initiate ischemia in the anterior compartment muscles, including the EDL. Injury or compression of the deep peroneal nerve, which innervates the EDL, can contribute to by impairing the muscle's dorsiflexion and toe extension capabilities, resulting in a steppage . This neuropathy often manifests as weakness across the anterior compartment, with EDL dysfunction exacerbating the drop. Additionally, in conditions like peroneal neuropathy with selective tibialis anterior inhibition, the EDL may exhibit secondary overactivity or tightness as a compensatory mechanism to maintain ankle stability during movement.

Diagnosis and treatment

Diagnosis of injuries or pathologies affecting the extensor digitorum longus (EDL) muscle and tendon typically begins with a thorough clinical examination, where healthcare providers assess patient history, symptoms such as pain along the anterolateral leg or dorsum of the foot, swelling, tenderness upon , and impaired toe extension or foot dorsiflexion. Specific tests include resisted dorsiflexion and toe extension to reproduce pain, alongside evaluation of and to differentiate EDL issues from similar conditions like anterior or peroneal tendon disorders. For suspected tendon tears or ruptures, which are rare but can occur from acute inversion injuries or chronic overuse, imaging modalities such as high-resolution musculoskeletal are preferred for their ability to detect partial tears, fascial defects, muscle herniation, and dynamic changes during movement; ultrasound often outperforms MRI in visualizing subtle herniations associated with EDL injuries. (MRI) may be employed to confirm full-thickness tears, associated fractures, or damage, while X-rays are used primarily to rule out bony abnormalities like stress fractures. Treatment strategies for EDL pathologies prioritize , particularly for or partial tears, beginning with the protocol (rest, ice, compression, elevation) to reduce inflammation and pain. Patients are advised to avoid aggravating activities, such as running or tight footwear that compresses the dorsum of the foot, and may use over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen for short-term relief. plays a central role, incorporating exercises for the and extensor muscles, progressive strengthening of ankle dorsiflexors, and techniques like ultrasound therapy or to address and improve tendon gliding. Orthotic devices, such as shoe inserts or braces, can alleviate pressure on the EDL tendon, especially in cases linked to biomechanical issues like . For more severe cases, such as complete ruptures or persistent symptoms unresponsive to 3-6 months of conservative , surgical may be necessary. Primary repair involves suturing the using non-absorbable braided sutures in a core technique, followed by in a splint or cast for several weeks to promote , with subsequent protected mobilization. In chronic ruptures or when primary repair is not feasible, tendon transfers (e.g., using adjacent extensors) or grafts from autologous or allograft sources are employed to restore . Postoperative rehabilitation focuses on gradual weight-bearing, to regain strength and , and monitoring for complications like adhesions or weakness, with recovery typically spanning several months. Advanced options like injections or ultrasound-guided hydrodissection may be considered adjunctively to enhance in refractory . Overall, early and tailored yield favorable outcomes, with most patients returning to normal activities within weeks to months.

References

  1. [1]
    Extensor digitorum longus muscle - Kenhub
    Extensor digitorum longus (EDL muscle) is a feather-like muscle of the anterior (extensor) compartment of leg. Besides EDL muscle, this compartment also ...
  2. [2]
    Extensor digitorum longus muscle | Radiology Reference Article
    Dec 27, 2022 · The extensor digitorum longus is a long, thin muscle situated in the anterior compartment of the leg. Alongside the tibialis anterior and the extensor hallucis ...
  3. [3]
    Extensor Digitorum Longus - Actions - TeachMeAnatomy
    Jan 7, 2023 · The extensor digitorum longus is a muscle in the anterior compartment of the leg. It is located lateral to the tibialis anterior.
  4. [4]
    Extensor Digitorum Longus - Physiopedia
    The extensor digitorum longus (EDL) is 1 of 4 muscles in the anterior compartment of the lower leg. The other muscles in the anterior compartment include: ...
  5. [5]
    Extensor Digitorum Longus - UW Radiology - University of Washington
    Action: Extend toes 2 - 5 and dorsiflexes ankle. Innervation: Deep peroneal nerve (L4, L5, S1). Arterial Supply: Anterior tibial artery.Missing: anatomy | Show results with:anatomy
  6. [6]
    Extensor Digitorum Longus | Complete Anatomy - Elsevier
    The extensor digitorum longus muscle is found in the anterior compartment of the leg. It is a long, thick, unipennate type of skeletal muscle.Quick Facts · Complete Anatomy · Key Features & Anatomical...
  7. [7]
    Muscles of the Anterior Leg - Attachments - Actions - TeachMeAnatomy
    ### Summary of Extensor Digitorum Longus Course and Relations
  8. [8]
    (PDF) A rare unilateral variation of extensor digitorum longus and ...
    May 26, 2025 · ... metatarsal. bone, or the 1st dorsal interosseous muscle. Additionally, it. may form a connecting slip to the extensor hallucis longus. via its ...
  9. [9]
  10. [10]
    [PDF] Unraveling the anatomy of toe extensors: An aid to the clinical ...
    Apr 1, 2024 · Second case showed a variation in extensor digitorum longus tendon of the 4th toe giving lateral and medial slips along with its main tendon.<|control11|><|separator|>
  11. [11]
    Extensor digitorum longus - Anatomy - Orthobullets
    Jan 2, 2022 · Splits into 4 tendon slips after inferior extensor retinaculum, each of which insert on dorsum of middle and distal phalanges as part of ...
  12. [12]
    Deep Peroneal Nerve - Anatomy - Orthobullets
    Oct 26, 2019 · Bifurcation of the common peroneal nerve. between the fibula and upper part of the peroneus longus ; Interosseous membrane. passes deep to ...Missing: vessels | Show results with:vessels
  13. [13]
    Anatomy, Bony Pelvis and Lower Limb: Calf Deep Peroneal Nerve ...
    Aug 9, 2025 · Following its origin near the proximal fibula, the deep fibular nerve travels obliquely forward beneath the extensor digitorum longus. The nerve ...Introduction · Structure and Function · Muscles · Surgical Considerations
  14. [14]
  15. [15]
    Extensor Digitorum Longus: origin, insertion, action - GetBodySmart
    Nov 2, 2022 · Nerve to Muscle and its Spinal Segment: Deep peroneal nerve (L4, L5, S1). Overview: Muscles That Act On Foot & Ankle (From ...
  16. [16]
    Peroneal Nerve Injury - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf
    Feb 25, 2024 · The most common presentation in CPN injury or palsy is acute foot drop, although symptoms may be progressive and can include sensory loss or ...
  17. [17]
    Foot Drop - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf
    May 1, 2025 · Foot drop is a neuromuscular condition characterized by weakness or paralysis of the dorsiflexor muscles, causing difficulty lifting the forefoot during gait.
  18. [18]
    Anterior tibial artery: Anatomy, branches, supply - Kenhub
    The upper third of the artery courses between the tibialis anterior and extensor digitorum longus muscles, while the middle third runs between the tibialis ...
  19. [19]
  20. [20]
    Posterior tibial artery | Radiology Reference Article - Radiopaedia.org
    Jul 25, 2025 · perforating arteries: usually five, supply the skin and fascia of the posterior leg. communicating artery: forms an anastomosis with the ...
  21. [21]
    Anterior tibial veins: Origin, course, drainage - Kenhub
    The anterior tibial veins drain the dorsum of the foot and the anterior leg compartment. Learn everything about their anatomy now at Kenhub!
  22. [22]
  23. [23]
    Toe Flexion and Extension - Module - Movements of the Lower Limb
    ... metatarsophalangeal, proximal interphalangeal, and distal interphalangeal. Muscles: extensor digitorum longus and brevis extend all 3 joints; lumbricals and ...
  24. [24]
    Muscles of the Lower Limb | UAMS Department of Neuroscience
    Muscles of the Lower Limb ; extensor digitorum longus, lateral condyle of the tibia, anterior surface of the fibula, lateral portion of the interosseous membrane ...
  25. [25]
    Anatomy, Bony Pelvis and Lower Limb, Foot Muscles - NCBI - NIH
    Apr 8, 2023 · Action: The primary action of the extensor digitorum longus is extension of the second through fifth digits; the muscle assists with ...
  26. [26]
    Isolated partial tear of extensor digitorum longus tendon with ...
    However, another eversion muscle, i.e. the extensor digitorum longus( EDL) may be affected. This muscle also dorsiflexes the ankle along with eversion, and ...
  27. [27]
    [DOC] The Muscular System
    Antagonist. A) Muscles that oppose, or reverse, a particular movement. 3 ... A) Flexor digitorum longus – flexion. B) Extensor digitorum longus – extends.<|control11|><|separator|>
  28. [28]
    Hammertoe - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf - NIH
    Extensor digitorum longus (EDL) primary function is in the swing phase of ... Flexor digitorum longus (FDL) divides into 4 separate slips that insert ...
  29. [29]
    Activities of ankle muscles during gait analyzed by simulation using ...
    The purpose of this study was to analyze the activity of ankle muscles during normal gait by simulation method using the human musculoskeletal model.
  30. [30]
    Effects of Extensor Digitorum Longus and Tibialis Anterior Taping on ...
    Sep 5, 2022 · Therefore, the activity of the extensor digitorum longus during eversion and dorsiflexion in the swing phase of the gait cycle is crucial [9].
  31. [31]
    Muscle Activity During Gait - Physiopedia
    Eccentric contraction of dorsiflexors (tibialis anterior, extensor digitorum longus, extensor hallucis longus) ... stance phase and start of double support period.
  32. [32]
    Chapter 16: The leg
    The muscles of the anterior leg are the tibialis anterior, extensor digitorum longus, fibularis tertius, and extensor hallucis longus (figs. 16-1 and 17-4C).
  33. [33]
    [PDF] An Advanced Look at the Mechanics of Hopping - Knowledge Box
    The primary muscle causing this action includes the tibialis anterior; the extensor hallucis longus and extensor digitorum longus are two additional muscles ...
  34. [34]
    [PDF] Review Article - Management of Anterior Tibialis Tendon Ruptures
    Aug 1, 2021 · Absence of AT tendon function can be partially compensated for via recruitment of the extensor hallucis longus (EHL) and extensor digitorum ...Missing: tightness | Show results with:tightness
  35. [35]
    Balanced Foot Dorsiflexion Requires a Coordinated Activity of the ...
    Balanced Foot Dorsiflexion Requires a Coordinated Activity of the Tibialis Anterior and the Extensor Digitorum Longus: A Musculoskeletal Modelling Study.
  36. [36]
    Extensor Tendonitis in the Foot: What It Is and How to Treat It - WebMD
    May 11, 2024 · The extensor tendons in your feet are called the extensor hallucis longus, extensor hallucis brevis, extensor digitorum longus, and tibialis ...Featured · Extensor Tendon Zones · Diagnosis Of Extensor...Missing: compensation | Show results with:compensation
  37. [37]
    Extensor Tendonitis in the Foot - SportsMD
    Extensor digitorum longus; Tibialis anterior. These muscles, including the ... The primary cause of extensor tendonitis is typically attributed to overuse and ...
  38. [38]
    Case report Closed rupture of the extensor digitorum longus tendon
    Closed subcutaneous rupture of the extensor digitorum longus tendon (EDL) has been rarely documented [8]. Only one study reported closed dislocation of EDL [1].
  39. [39]
    Tibial Anterior Compartment Syndrome - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf
    May 29, 2023 · Compartment syndrome occurs when the tissue pressure within a given compartment exceeds the perfusion pressure of the arterial supply.Missing: tightness | Show results with:tightness
  40. [40]
    Leg Compartment Syndrome - Trauma - Orthobullets
    May 5, 2025 · anterior compartment. function. dorsiflexion of foot and ankle. muscles. tibialis anterior. extensor hallucis longus. extensor digitorum longus.
  41. [41]
    Foot Drop: Practice Essentials, Anatomy, Pathophysiology
    Jul 25, 2024 · Foot drop may follow direct injury to the dorsiflexors. A few cases of rupture of the anterior tibial tendon leading to foot drop and suspicion ...
  42. [42]
    Extensor Tendonitis: What It Is, Causes & Treatment - Cleveland Clinic
    Like other types of tendinitis, the best way to treat extensor tendinitis is to avoid activities that make you overuse your tendons and give your body time to ...
  43. [43]
    EXTENSOR TENDINOPATHY | Sports Medicine Today
    The tendons involved include those of the muscles extensor hallicus longus, extensor digitorum longus, extensor halluces brevis, and tibialis anterior. The ...Missing: compensation | Show results with:compensation
  44. [44]
    Management of Extensor Tendon Injuries - PMC - PubMed Central
    Feb 23, 2012 · This review aims to provide a systematic examination method for assessing extensor injuries, presentation and management of all type of extensor tendon ...