Extensor Hallucis Longus - Audio Lecture 0:00 / 0:00 1x 0.25x 0.5x 0.75x 1x 1.25x 1.5x 1.75x 2x The extensor hallucis longus is a muscle in the anterior compartment of the leg. It is located deep to tibialis anterior and extensor digitorum longus – its tendon emerges from between the two muscles to insert onto the big toe. Attachments: Originates from the medial surface of the fibular shaft. The tendon crosses anterior to the ankle joint and attaches to the base of the distal phalanx of the great toe. Action: Extension of the great toe and dorsiflexion of the foot Innervation: Deep fibular nerve Blood supply: Anterior tibial artery By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 1The muscles of the anterior leg. Pro Feature - 3D Model You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our 3D Model Library Explore, cut, dissect, annotate and manipulate our 3D models to visualise anatomy in a dynamic, interactive way. Learn More Pro Feature - Dissection Atlas Prosection of the muscles of the anterior and lateral compartments of the leg. The deep fibular is deep to this layer, and not visible on this prosection. Prosection of the muscles of the anterior and lateral compartments of the leg. The deep fibular is deep to this layer, and not visible on this prosection. You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our Dissection Image Library Enhance your understanding with high-resolution dissection images showcasing real-life anatomy. Learn More In gratitude to our body donorsLearn more In gratitude to our body donors We are deeply grateful to the individuals who chose to donate their bodies for the advancement of medical education. Their generosity makes these images possible and provides students and healthcare professionals with an invaluable opportunity to study human anatomy. We recognise the profound contribution made by each donor and their families, and we use these images with the dignity and respect their gift deserves. Acknowledge Frequent questions What is the extensor hallucis longus muscle? The extensor hallucis longus is a muscle located in the anterior compartment of the leg, positioned deep to the tibialis anterior and extensor digitorum longus. Its primary function is to extend the great toe and assist in dorsiflexion of the foot. Where does the extensor hallucis longus originate and insert? This muscle originates from the medial surface of the fibular shaft and its tendon inserts at the base of the distal phalanx of the great toe. It crosses anterior to the ankle joint during its course. What is the primary action of the extensor hallucis longus? The main actions of the extensor hallucis longus are the extension of the great toe and dorsiflexion of the foot. These movements are crucial for activities such as walking and running. Which nerve innervates the extensor hallucis longus? The extensor hallucis longus is innervated by the deep fibular nerve. This nerve is responsible for providing motor function to the muscle. What is the blood supply for the extensor hallucis longus? The blood supply to the extensor hallucis longus comes from the anterior tibial artery. This artery ensures the muscle receives the necessary nutrients and oxygen for its function. Rate This Article