The Common Vein
Copyright 2010
Definition
Abductor Digiti Minimi (Foot) Muscle
Definition
By: Gregory R. Waryasz, MD
The abductor digiti minimi of the musculoskeletal system is characterized by being an adductor and flexor of the great toe.
It is part of the 1st layer of plantar muscles of the lower leg and consists of skeletal muscle fibers.
Its unique structural features include that it is the located on the lateral sole of the foot.
The origin is at the medial and lateral tubercles of the calcaneal tuberosity, plantar aponeurosis, and the intermuscular septa.
The insertion is at the lateral base of the proximal phalanx of the 5th digit.
The blood supply is from distal branches of the posterior tibial artery.
The innervation is from the lateral plantar nerve.
The abductor digiti minimi muscle as well as all other bones, muscles, and ligaments of the body are derived of mesodermal origin in embryo.
The function of the abductor digiti minimi is to abduct and flex the 5th digit.
There are no common diseases.
Commonly used diagnostic procedures include clinical history, physical exam, and MRI.
References
Lieberman J (ed), AAOS Comprehensive Orthopaedic Review, American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, 2008.
Moore K, Dalley A (eds), Clinically Oriented Anatomy (5th edition), Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Philadelphia, PA, 2006.