Extensor digitorum brevis

The extensor digitorum brevis (Latin: musculus extensor digitorum brevis) is a thin, short muscle of the foot that aids in the extension of the second, third and fourth fingers of the foot. It is located in the dorsal aspect of the foot and belongs to the dorsal foot muscles.

Origin

The extensor digitorum brevis muscle originates from the superior and lateral surface of the calcaneus, talocalcaneal ligament and inferior extensor retinaculum.

Insertion

The fibers of the extensor digitorum brevis pass forward and insert into the tendons of the extensor digitorum longus of the second to fourth fingers of the foot.

Action

The extensor digitorum brevis muscle extends the second, third and fourth fingers of the foot.

Innervation

The extensor digitorum brevis is innervated by the deep peroneal (fibular) nerve (L5 - S1) - a branch of the common peroneal (fibular) nerve.

Blood supply

The extensor digitorum brevis muscle receives arterial blood supply from the branches of the dorsalis pedis artery.