Which of the following muscles allows you to curl your toes?

• A. Tibialis anterior
• B. Gastrocnemius
• C. Flexor digitorum longus
• D. Extensor hallucis longus

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the function of the Flexor digitorum longus muscle. This muscle is located in the posterior compartment of the leg and is responsible for flexing the toes (curling them downward). It plays a key role in movements like gripping the ground with your toes.
2. Step 2: Compare the function of the Flexor digitorum longus with the other muscles listed. For example, the Tibialis anterior is involved in dorsiflexion (lifting the foot upward) and inversion of the foot, not toe curling.
3. Step 3: Examine the Gastrocnemius muscle. This muscle is part of the calf and primarily functions in plantar flexion (pointing the toes downward) and knee flexion, but it does not directly curl the toes.
4. Step 4: Analyze the Extensor hallucis longus muscle. This muscle is responsible for extending the big toe and assisting in dorsiflexion of the foot, which is the opposite of curling the toes.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the Flexor digitorum longus is the correct muscle for curling the toes, as its specific function aligns with the action described in the problem.