GENERAL INFORMATION
The peroneus longus, also known as fibularis longus, is a muscle located in the lateral compartment of the lower leg. It plays a vital role in ankle stability, eversion (outward movement) of the foot and supporting the arch of the foot.
ORIGIN
The peroneus longus muscle originates from the head as well as the upper two-thirds of the fibula, which is the smaller bone of the lower leg.
INSERTION POINT
The peroneus longus muscle inserts into the base of the first metatarsal bone (the bone connecting to the big toe) as well as the medial cuneiform bone (one of the bones in the midfoot). Consequently, this insertion allows the muscle to perform its eversion function effectively.
MAJOR ARTERIES
The peroneus longus muscle receives 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 longus 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 longus, allowing it to contract as well as produce movement.
TRIGGER POINT
Trigger points can develop in the muscle, causing pain and discomfort in the lower leg and 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 muscle involves shortening or contracting 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 and running.
ECCENTRIC FUNCTION
The eccentric function of the muscle refers to the controlled lengthening of the muscle while resisting an external force. It controls foot inversion (moving the sole inward) and decelerating the foot during gait. As a result, this eccentric function helps in maintaining balance and stability.
ISOMETRIC FUNCTION
The isometric function of the muscle involves contracting the muscle without any change in length. Isometric contractions of the peroneus longus 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 longus muscle is also known by the following scientific name:
- Musculus peroneus longus
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 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 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. Provides targeted resistance to strengthen the Peroneus Longus 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 Peroneus Longus 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 Longus.
- Single-Leg Balance Drills: Stand on one leg and maintain balance, optionally incorporating movements or reaching with the opposite leg or arm. Improves balance and engages the Peroneus Longus muscle for stability.
STRETCHES
- Ankle Inversion Stretch: Gently turn the foot inward (inversion) to stretch the Peroneus Longus muscle. It improves flexibility and relieves tension in the Peroneus Longus muscle.
- 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 Peroneus Longus 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 Peroneus Longus 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 Longus muscle.
- Toe Touch Stretch: Sit with legs extended, reach towards the toes and hold. Stretches the hamstrings and lower leg muscles, including the Peroneus Longus.
