Lower limb

Flexor digitorum longus

Musculus flexor digitorum longus

Origin

Posterior surface of the tibia, distal to the soleal line

Insertion

Distal phalanges of toes two to five

Function

Flexion of toes 2-5 and support of plantarflexion of the foot

Innervation

Tibial nerve, L5-S2

Movement & chain

During the push-off phase of gait, works together with flexor hallucis longus and the intrinsic foot muscles to press the toes against the ground (toe grip).

Palpation

Difficult to palpate directly; the tendon can be followed behind the medial malleolus, just posterior to the tendon of tibialis posterior.

Clinical

Can be involved in 'jogger's foot' due to entrapment of the tibial nerve in the same region.

Segmental innervation

L5-S2, part of the myotome testing pattern for toe flexion.

In clinical practice

Skin and pressure point inspection; maintain comfortable positioning and proper body mechanics during patient handling and daily care.

Region in the model

Lower limb