Flexor Hallucis Brevis - Podcast Version 0:00 / 0:00 1x 0.25x 0.5x 0.75x 1x 1.25x 1.5x 1.75x 2x The flexor hallucis brevis is an intrinsic muscle of the foot. It is located within the third plantar muscle layer of the foot and has two heads of origin. Attachments: Lateral head – originates from the plantar surfaces of the cuboid and lateral cuneiforms Medial head – originates from the tendon of the posterior tibialis tendon. The fibres converge into a single muscle belly, which attaches to the base of the proximal phalanx of the great toe. Actions: Flexion of the great toe at the metatarsophalangeal joint. Innervation: Medial plantar nerve. Blood Supply: Posterior tibial and fibular arteries. By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 4The third layer of plantar muscles. 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 Frequent questions What is the flexor hallucis brevis? The flexor hallucis brevis is an intrinsic muscle located in the foot's third plantar muscle layer. It plays a crucial role in flexing the great toe at the metatarsophalangeal joint. Where does the flexor hallucis brevis originate? This muscle has two heads of origin: the lateral head arises from the plantar surfaces of the cuboid and lateral cuneiform bones, while the medial head originates from the tendon of the posterior tibialis. What are the attachments of the flexor hallucis brevis? The muscle's fibres converge into a single belly that attaches to the base of the proximal phalanx of the great toe. This positioning allows it to effectively perform its function. How is the flexor hallucis brevis innervated? The flexor hallucis brevis is innervated by the medial plantar nerve, which is essential for its motor function in toe flexion. What is the blood supply to the flexor hallucis brevis? The blood supply to the flexor hallucis brevis comes from the posterior tibial and fibular arteries, ensuring it receives adequate oxygen and nutrients for its activity. Rate This Article