Muscle Name: extensor digitorum longus
AKA: musculus extensor digitorum longus
Abbreviation: EDL
Spinal Nerve Roots:
L4
L5
Plexus:
lumbosacral plexus
Named Nerves:
deep peroneal nerve
common peroneal nerve
sciatic nerve
Proximal Attachment: Lateral Condyle of tibia and superior portion of interosseous membrane
Distal Attachment: Middle and distal phalanges of lateral four digits
Action: Extension of the four lateral toes, some eversion of the foot.
Needle Insertion: In the anterior leg approximately 6 centimeters distal to the tibial tubercle and 3 centimeters lateral to the tibialcrest. If the needle is inserted directly posteriorly it must be inserted through the tibialis anterior by approximately 2 centimeters. Alternatively the needle may be inserted more laterally and directly into the muscle belly.
Activation for EMG: Have the patient extend their toes.
Pitfalls: If the needle is too medial or superficial the tibialis anterior will be sampled. If the needle is too lateral the peroneous longus will be sampled.
Notes:
