Which of the following is released during Steindler stripping?

• A. Release of abductor hallucis only
• B. Release of flexor digitorum brevis only
• C. Release of flexor digitorum brevis, abductor hallucis, and abductor digiti quinti
• D. Release of plantar fascia

Answer: (C)

Steindler stripping targets the intrinsic plantar muscles that tether the forefoot. By stripping the origins of the flexor digitorum brevis, abductor hallucis, and abductor digiti quinti from the calcaneal/plantar region, the procedure reduces the combined pull these muscles place on the toes and forefoot, allowing better realignment without sacrificing the plantar fascia’s function. The goal isn’t to release the plantar fascia itself, but to loosen the intrinsic muscle-tendon units that contribute to deforming forces. Releasing only one muscle would not sufficiently relieve the imbalance, and releasing the plantar fascia alone wouldn’t address the intrinsic muscle tightness involved. Hence, releasing flexor digitorum brevis, abductor hallucis, and abductor digiti quinti best fits Steindler stripping.