Lower limb
Opponens digiti minimi of the foot
Musculus opponens digiti minimi (pedis)
- Origin
- Cuboid bone and base of the fifth metatarsal bone, in continuity with flexor digiti minimi brevis
- Insertion
- Lateral side of the shaft of the fifth metatarsal bone
- Function
- Supports the lateral arch of the foot by pulling the fifth metatarsal bone medially and plantarward
- Innervation
- Lateral plantar nerve
- Movement & chain
- Together with abductor digiti minimi and flexor digiti minimi brevis, supports the lateral arch of the foot during foot rollover.
- Palpation
- Deep along the plantolateral 5th metatarsal shaft under the short flexor; difficult to palpate in isolation.
- Clinical
- Supports the lateral longitudinal arch; involved in 5th ray overload syndromes and tailor's bunion (bunionette).
- Segmental innervation
- S1-S2 (lateral plantar nerve).
- In clinical practice
- Diabetic foot inspection and pressure ulcer prevention; monitor for friction points from footwear or bedding and ensure correct anti-embolism stocking fit.
- Region in the model
- Lower limb