Where does the flexor digitorum brevis split?

Where does the flexor digitorum brevis split?

• A. At the base of the proximal phalanx, digits 2-5
• B. At the base of the distal phalanx, digits 2-5
• C. At the calcaneus
• D. At the metatarsophalangeal joints

Answer: (A)

The flexor digitorum brevis splits at the base of the proximal phalanx of digits 2–5. This early division forms four slips that travel to the sides of the middle phalanges, allowing the muscle to flex the proximal interphalangeal joints of those toes. Although the muscle originates from the calcaneus, the tendon division happens distally as it approaches the toes, not at the calcaneus itself. It does not split at the distal phalanx or at the metatarsophalangeal joints, which are not the site of the separation.

The flexor digitorum brevis splits at the base of the proximal phalanx of digits 2–5. This early division forms four slips that travel to the sides of the middle phalanges, allowing the muscle to flex the proximal interphalangeal joints of those toes. Although the muscle originates from the calcaneus, the tendon division happens distally as it approaches the toes, not at the calcaneus itself. It does not split at the distal phalanx or at the metatarsophalangeal joints, which are not the site of the separation.