
Extensor Digitorum Longus Muscle
Primary Actions of the Extensor Digitorum Longus
1. Extension of the four lateral toes at the proximal interphalangeal joints
Agonists:
- Extensor Digitorum Brevis
Antagonists:
- Flexor Digitorum Longus
- Flexor Digitorum Brevis
Lumbricals, dorsal interossei, and plantar interossei assist with extension of the four lateral toes at the proximal interphalangeal joints.
2. Extension of the four lateral toes at the distal interphalangeal joints
Agonists:
- None
Antagonists:
- Flexor Digitorum Longus
Lumbricals, dorsal interossei, and plantar interossei assist with extension of the four lateral toes at the distal interphalangeal joints.
3. Extension of the four lateral toes at the metatarsophalangeal joints
Agonists:
- Extensor Digitorum Brevis
Antagonists:
- Flexor Digitorum Longus
- Flexor Digitorum Brevis
- Flexor Digiti Minimi (fifth digit)
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Secondary Actions of the Extensor Digitorum Longus
1. Assists with dorsiflexion of the foot at the ankle
Agonists:
- Tibialis Anterior
Antagonists:
- Gastrocnemius
- Soleus
Extensor hallucis longus and peroneus tertius also assist with dorsiflexion of the foot
Muscle Pain Information: The extensor digitorum longus contributes to pain in the top of the foot and the toes.