The tendon passes through a distinct compartment in the inferior extensor retinaculum of foot.

[1] Opposite the metatarsophalangeal articulation, the tendon gives off a thin prolongation on either side, to cover the surface of the joint.

An expansion from the medial side of the tendon is usually inserted into the base of the proximal phalanx.

[citation needed] The muscle inserts at the base of the distal phalanx of the great toe.

[3] This article incorporates text in the public domain from page 481 of the 20th edition of Gray's Anatomy (1918)