What condition is characterized by weakness of the extensor hallucis longus muscle?

The condition characterized by weakness of the extensor hallucis longus muscle is most closely associated with radiculopathy. Radiculopathy occurs when a nerve root is compressed or irritated, leading to symptoms such as weakness, numbness, or pain along the path of the affected nerve. The extensor hallucis longus muscle is primarily innervated by the deep fibular nerve, which is a branch of the common fibular nerve that arises from the L5 nerve root. If there is a problem at the level of the lumbar spine or lumbosacral region affecting the L5 nerve root, it can lead to weakness in the extensor hallucis longus, resulting in difficulty in extension of the big toe.

This is distinct from the other conditions listed. Peripheral neuropathy generally affects multiple nerves throughout the body and often presents with a more generalized pattern of weakness or sensory loss, rather than focusing specifically on the extensor hallucis longus. Muscle strain usually refers to an injury to a muscle or tendon, which would present with localized pain and weakness but is not specifically tied to nerve root involvement. Spinal stenosis may lead to symptoms like pain or numbness due to spinal canal narrowing, but it doesn’t directly focus on a specific