Extensor Digitorum Longus

Extensor Digitorum Longus

Extensor Digitorum Longus

Stretches

Stretches

Extensor Digitorum Longus FOOT Stretch for All Standing

Extensor Digitorum Longus FOOT Stretch for All Standing

How to perform the stretch:

1. Start in a standing position
2. Choose the muscle or foot you intend to stretch
3. Raise the target foot off the ground by flexing the knee and “point” (dorsiflex) the foot and toes
4. Place the toes 2-5 and the lower dorsal surface of this foot on the floor behind you
5. Apply pressure to this target foot by slightly flexing the standing knee and hip, lowering your body towards the floor
6. Hold the stretch for 20 Seconds
7. Release the stretch

Extensor Digitorum Longus FOOT Stretch for All Kneeling

Extensor Digitorum Longus FOOT Stretch for All Kneeling

How to perform the stretch:

1. Start in a kneeling position
2. This movement stretches both sides at the same time
3. With the big toes, dorsal surface and shins of each leg on the mat, rotate the ankles outwards and flex at the knees and hips to lower the buttocks
4. Apply pressure to these target muscles by resting your body weight through your buttocks, onto your heels
5. Hold the stretch for 20 Seconds
6. Release the stretch

Muscle Details

Muscle Details

The Extensor Digitorum Longus is one of the muscles that controls deceleration of the forefoot immediately following heel strike, during running or walking.

Origin:

  • Proximal 2/3 of fibula, interosseous membrane, lateral condyle of tibia (anterior surface).

Insertion:

  • Dorsal surface of digits 2-5 (from tendon dorsal separation to middle & distal phalanges).

Action:

  • Extension of digits 2-5 and assisted dorsiflexion & eversion of foot.

Although rare, this muscle can suffer from tendonopathy injuries.