Contribution of the Flexor Hallucis Longus to Loading of the First Metatarsal and First Metatarsophalangeal Joint

Abstract

These findings support the hypothesis that progressive fibrosis at the FHL myotendinous junction can cause increased loading of the hallux MTPJ, thereby leading to hallux rigidus.

Ultrasound evaluation of foot muscles and plantar fascia in pes planus

“…The key difference in function between intrinsic and extrinsic supinators of the foot is their action around the midtarsal, subtalar and ankle joints, specifically the latter. Perhaps in pes planus, the different posture of the foot disadvantages FHL and FDL so that they need to generate greater forces to contribute the required moments and thus facilitate normal sagittal plane ankle function This preference for FHL and FDL contributions to MLA support may result in hypertrophy [15,18].…”

“…Tibialis anterior contracts in early stance to allow gradual plantarflexion of the foot and to decelerate downward motion of the foot. FHL and FDL further contribute to the maintenance of the MLA [16] but their actions are perhaps more coupled with intrinsic muscle and plantar fascia function than TP and TA, since all these structures insert into the digits [17,18]. However, the relationship between the extrinsic and intrinsic foot structures that share common functions has not been reported in pes planus.…”

Foot Kinematics During a Bilateral Heel Rise Test in Participants With Stage II Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction

“…Periods of power generation suggest that active mechanisms are responsible 27. The first metatarsal plantar flexion ROM, therefore, may be the result of (1) muscle control of the intrinsic muscles,24 (2) flexor hallucis longus muscle,20,21 (3) Achilles tendon forces acting through the plantar fascia,10 and/or (4) some combination of these actions, which are retained in individuals with PTTD.…”

Whatʼs New in Foot and Ankle Surgery

“…Kirane et al investigated the role of stenosing tenosynovitis of the flexor hallucis longus tendon, as manifested by limited distal excursion, in the etiology of hallux rigidus 25 . Cadaver specimens were placed in a Robotic Dynamic Activity Simulator to simulate the stance phase of gait.…”