Flexor digitorum longus tendons

Tendines musculi flexoris digitorum longi

MuscularDeep musclesLegLeft and right

View left in 3D View right in 3D

What it is

The FDL tendon passes behind the medial malleolus into the sole, receives quadratus plantae and gives origin to the lumbricals, then splits into four tendons that pierce the flexor digitorum brevis tendons to reach the distal phalanges of toes 2-5.

Function

Curls the lateral four toes and helps grip the ground in push-off.

Size

Main tendon about 5 mm diameter; digital slips 2 mm.

Clinical note

Weakness of the long and short toe flexors against the pull of the extensors contributes to claw and hammer toes.