dorsiflexoren

Dorsiflexoren, or dorsiflexors, are the muscles that dorsiflex the foot at the ankle joint, lifting the dorsum of the foot toward the shin. The primary dorsiflexors are in the anterior compartment of the leg and include tibialis anterior, extensor digitorum longus, extensor hallucis longus, and, to a lesser extent, peroneus tertius. Tibialis anterior is the strongest dorsiflexor and also contributes to inversion; extensor digitorum longus extends the toes and assists dorsiflexion; extensor hallucis longus extends the big toe and aids dorsiflexion; peroneus tertius assists dorsiflexion and eversion.

Innervation and attachments: these muscles are mainly innervated by the deep peroneal (deep fibular) nerve. Tibialis anterior originates from the upper tibia and interosseous membrane and inserts on the medial cuneiform and first metatarsal. Extensor digitorum longus originates from the tibia and fibula and inserts on the middle and distal phalanges of toes 2–5. Extensor hallucis longus originates from the fibula and interosseous membrane and inserts on the distal phalanx of the great toe. Peroneus tertius originates from the distal fibula and inserts on the base of the fifth metatarsal.

Function: the main action is dorsiflexion of the foot at the ankle, enabling foot clearance during the swing phase of gait. Tibialis anterior also contributes to inversion; extensor digitorum longus and extensor hallucis longus extend the toes. They function with plantar flexors and toe flexors to control foot placement and balance.

Clinical relevance: weakness or loss of function in the dorsiflexors can cause foot drop and impaired gait, often due to peroneal nerve injury or neuropathy. Assessment includes resisted dorsiflexion and nerve testing; treatment may involve physical therapy, orthotic devices, or electrical stimulation in some cases.