Digitorum brevis muscle

Digitorum Brevis Muscle

The digitorum brevis muscle, shown in red, is located in the foot.

The Digitorum brevis muscle is a muscle located in the foot. It is one of the intrinsic muscles of the foot, and plays a crucial role in human locomotion.

Anatomy

The digitorum brevis muscle originates from the medial process of the calcaneal tuberosity, the plantar aponeurosis, and the intermuscular septa. It inserts into the middle phalanges of the four lesser toes. The muscle is innervated by the medial plantar nerve.

Function

The primary function of the digitorum brevis muscle is to flex the second to fifth toes at the proximal interphalangeal joints. This action aids in maintaining balance while walking and running.

Clinical significance

Damage or injury to the digitorum brevis muscle can result in foot pain and difficulty in walking. Conditions such as plantar fasciitis and flat feet can also affect the function of this muscle.

See also

• Flexor digitorum brevis muscle
• Flexor digitorum longus muscle
• Intrinsic muscles of the foot