Extensor hallucis brevis

The extensor hallucis brevis (Latin: musculus extensor hallucis brevis) is a small, thin foot muscle located in its dorsal aspect. Therefore, together with the extensor digitorum brevis, the extensor hallucis brevis belongs to the dorsal foot muscles. It stretches between the calcaneus and proximal phalanx of the first toe. As the name suggests, the extensor hallucis brevis aids in the extension of the hallux.

Origin

The extensor hallucis brevis muscle originates from the superior and lateral surfaces of the calcaneus and inferior extensor retinaculum.

Insertion

The extensor hallucis brevis inserts on the base of the proximal phalanx of the hallux.

Action

The extensor hallucis brevis muscle extends the hallux at the first metatarsophalangeal joint.

Innervation

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

Blood supply

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