Extensor digitorum muscle

Extensor digitorum muscle is a muscle located in the dorsal side of the forearm. It extends the medial four digits of the hand. The muscle is also known as the extensor digitorum communis.

Etymology

The term "extensor" comes from the Latin word "extendere", which means "to stretch out". "Digitorum" is derived from the Latin word "digitus", meaning "finger". Thus, "extensor digitorum" can be translated as "the extensor of the fingers".

Anatomy

The extensor digitorum muscle originates from the lateral epicondyle of the humerus by the common extensor tendon. It divides into four tendons that insert into the extensor expansions of the medial four digits of the hand. The muscle is innervated by the radial nerve.

Function

The primary function of the extensor digitorum muscle is to extend the fingers. It also assists in the extension and radial abduction of the wrist.

Clinical significance

Injury or damage to the extensor digitorum muscle or its tendons can lead to a condition known as mallet finger, where the end joint of a finger or thumb cannot straighten.

Related terms

• Extensor digitorum longus muscle: A muscle in the leg that helps in extending the four lesser toes and dorsiflexing the foot.
• Extensor digitorum brevis muscle: A muscle on the upper surface of the foot that helps in extending the toes.

See also

• List of muscles of the human body
• Extensor muscles

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