Flexor longus muscle

Flexor Longus Muscle

Flexor Longus Muscle (Image from Gray's Anatomy)

The Flexor Longus Muscle is a muscle located in the human body, specifically in the lower leg. It is one of the muscles that enable the foot and toes to flex, hence its name.

Anatomy

The Flexor Longus Muscle originates from the fibula, one of the two bones in the lower leg. It runs down the leg, passing through the tarsal tunnel on the inside of the ankle, and attaches to the base of the distal phalanx of the big toe.

Function

The primary function of the Flexor Longus Muscle is to flex the big toe. It also assists in plantar flexion of the foot at the ankle, and supports the arch of the foot.

Clinical Significance

Damage or strain to the Flexor Longus Muscle can result in a condition known as "turf toe", which is a sprain of the big toe joint. This condition is common in athletes who play sports on hard surfaces, like football and soccer players.

See Also

• Muscular system
• Lower leg
• Tarsal tunnel
• Phalanx bone
• Turf toe

External Links

• Anatomy Zone: Flexor Hallucis Longus Muscle