Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx)

A client presents with stiffness and mild pain in her leg. Which muscle would the practitioner target to lengthen if her foot is everted?

1. Tibialis anterior

2. Extensor digitorum longus

3. Peroneus longus

4. Plantaris

The correct answer is: Peroneus longus

When a client presents with an everted foot, the muscle targeted for lengthening is the peroneus longus. This muscle, also known as the fibularis longus, plays a significant role in the eversion of the foot—an action where the sole of the foot turns outward, away from the midline of the body. Lengthening the peroneus longus can help alleviate stiffness and pain by promoting proper alignment and mobility in the foot and ankle. By relaxing and stretching the peroneus longus, the practitioner can potentially enhance the client’s range of motion and comfort. The tibialis anterior is primarily responsible for dorsiflexion and inversion of the foot, while the extensor digitorum longus assists in extending the toes and has a minimal effect on foot eversion. The plantaris muscle has a minor role in ankle movements and is not directly related to foot eversion. Thus, targeting the peroneus longus is the most effective approach for addressing issues related to an everted foot.