During Steindler stripping, which structures are released?

During Steindler stripping, which structures are released?

• A. Abductor hallucis only
• B. Abductor digiti quinti only
• C. Flexor digitorum brevis and abductor hallucis only
• D. Flexor digitorum brevis, abductor hallucis, and abductor digiti quinti

Answer: (D)

Steindler stripping targets the plantar intrinsic muscles that originate from the calcaneus and tether the hindfoot and forefoot. By releasing these origins, the procedure reduces the pull from the intrinsic system on the heel and arch, allowing greater mobilization and realignment of the foot.

The structures released are the flexor digitorum brevis, the abductor hallucis, and the abductor digiti quinti. Each of these muscles originates from the calcaneal tuberosity and contributes to maintaining the plantar platform and toe alignment. Detaching all three from their calcaneal origin eliminates their shared tether, which is why complete release of these muscles is performed in this context.

releasing only one or two of them would leave residual tethering and limit the degree of correction, whereas releasing all three provides the necessary release to achieve the intended realignment.