Extensor Digitorum Brevis inserts near the base of which toe structure?

Extensor Digitorum Brevis inserts near the base of which toe structure?

• A. Tip of the distal phalanx
• B. Base of the proximal phalanx
• C. Base of the middle phalanx
• D. Tends to insert into the dorsal base of the distal phalanx

Answer: (B)

Extensor digitorum brevis is a short muscle on the dorsum of the foot that splits into slips reaching the toes. Its tendons attach to the bases of the proximal phalanges of the 2nd through the 4th toes, helping to extend the toes at the metatarsophalangeal joints. This placement around the base of the proximal phalanges is why the correct answer is the base of the proximal phalanx. It does not insert on the distal phalanx tips, the bases of the middle phalanges, or the dorsal base of the distal phalanx.