GENERAL INFORMATION
The peroneus brevis, also known as fibularis brevis, is a muscle located in the lateral compartment of the lower leg. It plays a crucial role in ankle stability, eversion (outward movement) of the foot and supporting the arch of the foot.
ORIGIN
The peroneus brevis muscle originates from the lower two-thirds of the fibula, which is the smaller bone of the lower leg.
INSERTION POINT
The peroneus brevis muscle inserts into the base of the fifth metatarsal bone, which is the bone connecting to the little toe. Consequently, this insertion allows the muscle to perform its eversion function effectively.
MAJOR ARTERIES
The peroneus brevis muscle receives its blood supply from branches of the fibular artery, including the anterior lateral malleolar artery. These arteries provide oxygenated blood to the muscle to support its function.
NEURAL INNERVATION
The peroneus brevis muscle is innervated by the superficial fibular nerve (also known as the superficial peroneal nerve), which arises from the common fibular nerve. The superficial fibular nerve provides motor innervation to the peroneus brevis, allowing it to contract as well as produce movement.
TRIGGER POINT
Trigger points can develop in the peroneus brevis muscle, causing pain and discomfort in the lower leg as well as the foot. These trigger points may be associated with muscle tension, overuse or injuries. Therefore, addressing these trigger points is essential for managing pain as well as ensuring proper muscle function.
CONCENTRIC FUNCTION
The concentric function of the peroneus brevis muscle involves the shortening and contraction of the muscle. This function is primarily responsible for the eversion of the foot, moving the sole outward. This action is essential for activities such as walking as well as running.
ECCENTRIC FUNCTION
The eccentric function of the peroneus brevis muscle refers to the controlled lengthening of the muscle while resisting an external force. It is involved in controlling foot inversion (moving the sole inward) as well as decelerating the foot during gait. As a result, this eccentric function helps in maintaining balance and stability.
ISOMETRIC FUNCTION
The isometric function of the peroneus brevis muscle involves contracting the muscle without any change in length. Isometric contractions of the peroneus brevis occur during activities that require stability and maintaining the foot’s position. Consequently, this isometric function is essential for postural control and stability.
RELATED MUSCLE-SCIENTIFIC NAMES
The peroneus brevis muscle is also known by the following scientific name:
- Musculus peroneus brevis
ANTAGONIST MUSCLES
- Tibialis Posterior: Responsible for ankle inversion, moving the foot inward.
COMMON INJURIES
- Peroneal Tendonitis: Inflammation of the peroneal tendons can be caused by overuse or repetitive stress. Symptoms include pain and swelling along the outer ankle and foot.
- Ankle Sprains: Injuries to the ligaments of the ankle that can affect the peroneus brevis muscle and its tendons. Symptoms include pain, swelling and instability.
- Stress Fractures: Small cracks or breaks in the fibula bone associated with excessive stress on the Peroneus Brevis muscle. Symptoms include localised pain and tenderness along the fibula.
EXERCISES
- Ankle Eversion Exercises: Perform exercises that involve moving the foot outward against resistance, such as using a resistance band. Strengthens the muscle and improves ankle stability.
- Resistance Band Exercises: Wrap a resistance band around the foot and perform ankle eversion exercises. It provides targeted resistance to strengthen the muscle.
- Balancing Exercises: Engage in exercises that challenge the stability of the foot, such as standing on one leg or using a balance board. Activates and strengthens the muscle, enhancing ankle stability.
- Lateral leg Raises: Lie on your side and lift the top leg upward, hold for a moment, then lower it back down. Strengthens the lateral muscles of the lower leg, including the Peroneus Brevis.
- Single-Leg Balance Drills: Stand on one leg and maintain balance, optionally incorporating movements or reaching with the opposite leg or arm. It improves balance and engages the muscles for stability.
STRETCHES
- Ankle Inversion Stretch: Gently turn the foot inward (inversion) to stretch the peroneus brevis muscle. It improves flexibility and relieves tension in the muscles.
- Standing Calf Stretch: Lean against a wall with one leg extended behind and the heel on the ground, stretching the calf muscles. Indirectly stretches the muscle while targeting the calf muscles.
- Seated Ankle Eversion Stretch: Sit with one leg over the opposite knee and gently press the raised foot downward and outward. Directly stretches the muscle, enhancing flexibility.
- Foam Roller Stretch: A foam roller gently massages and stretches the outer lower leg muscles. It helps release tension and improve flexibility in the Peroneus Brevis muscle.
- Toe Touch Stretch: Sit with legs extended, reach towards the toes and hold. Stretches the hamstrings and lower leg muscles, including the Peroneus Brevis.