Understanding Your Toe Muscles: Anatomy & Function

The toe muscles are located in the foot. They are divided into two groups: the intrinsic toe muscles and the extrinsic toe muscles.

The intrinsic toe muscles are located within the foot and are responsible for moving the toes individually. They are divided into three groups: the dorsal interossei, the plantar interossei, and the lumbricals.

* The dorsal interossei are located on the top of the foot and are responsible for extending (straightening) the toes.

* The plantar interossei are located on the bottom of the foot and are responsible for flexing (bending) the toes.

* The lumbricals are located in the middle of the foot and are responsible for both flexing and extending the toes.

The extrinsic toe muscles are located outside the foot and are responsible for moving the toes together as a unit. They are divided into two groups: the peroneus longus and the peroneus brevis.

* The peroneus longus is located on the outside of the calf and is responsible for everting (turning outward) the foot and flexing the toes.

* The peroneus brevis is located on the outside of the calf and is responsible for everting the foot and dorsiflexing (lifting upward) the toes.