Morphology of flexor digitorum accessorius muscle
Sunita Arvind Athavale1, G N Geetha, Swathi
1Department of Anatomy, People's College of Medical Sciences and Research Centre, Bhanpur, Bhopal Pin 462010, Madhya Pradesh, India. arvindat@rediffmail.com
Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy : SRA
|December 6, 2011
Summary
The flexor digitorum accessorius muscle, particularly its medial head, frequently originates within the tarsal tunnel. This anatomical variation may contribute to tarsal tunnel syndrome, impacting foot function.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Orthopedics
- Podiatry
Background:
- The flexor digitorum accessorius muscle is located in the sole's second layer.
- Its function and phylogenetic significance are debated.
- Anatomical variants are implicated in tarsal tunnel syndrome.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the morphology of the flexor digitorum accessorius muscle in humans.
- To analyze variations in origin, insertion, and potential involvement in tarsal tunnel syndrome.
Main Methods:
- Dissection of the sole's second layer in 47 human cadavers.
- Observation of muscle origin, insertion, and variations.
- Assessment of the medial head's extension into the tarsal tunnel.
Main Results:
- The flexor digitorum accessorius muscle exhibited significant variability, especially the medial head.
- The medial head originated within the tarsal tunnel in 80% of cases.
- The lateral head was more consistent, with an aponeurotic origin in all specimens.
Conclusions:
- A bulky medial head may function as the primary toe flexor in humans.
- The medial head's frequent extension into the tarsal tunnel is a key finding.
- A prominent medial head should be considered a potential cause of tarsal tunnel syndrome.
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