Alberta Written Barber Practice Exam

Which of the following muscles moves the big toe away from the other toes?

1. Flexor hallucis brevis

2. Adductor hallucis

3. Abductor hallucis

4. Extensor hallucis longus

The correct answer is: Abductor hallucis

The muscle that moves the big toe away from the other toes is the abductor hallucis. This muscle plays a crucial role in the movement of the big toe, allowing it to move laterally, or away from the second toe, which is important for maintaining balance and proper foot mechanics during activities such as walking and running. The abductor hallucis originates from the calcaneus (heel bone) and inserts into the base of the proximal phalanx of the big toe. When the muscle contracts, it pulls the big toe away from the midline of the foot, facilitating abduction. In contrast, the flexor hallucis brevis functions primarily to flex the big toe rather than move it away from the other toes. The adductor hallucis is responsible for bringing the big toe closer to the other toes, playing an opposite role to the abductor. The extensor hallucis longus extends the big toe but does not have a primary role in abduction. Therefore, the abductor hallucis is specifically designated for the movement in question.