Anatomy, Bony Pelvis and Lower Limb, Extensor Hallucis Longus Muscle

The extensor hallucis longus muscle is one of four muscles in the anterior compartment of the lower limb. The three other muscles in the anterior compartment are the tibialis anterior, extensor digitorum longus and fibularis tertius muscles. The anterior compartment receives innervation from the deep fibular nerve, supplied by the anterior tibial artery, and is important in dorsiflexion of the ankle and extension of the toes. The extensor hallucis longus specifically extends the hallux, dorsiflexes the foot at the ankle and inverts the foot. The extensor hallucis longus muscle is susceptible to several pathologies including nerve injury resulting in foot drop, tendonitis, tendon rupture, and anterior compartment syndrome.