Extensor substitution occurs when extensor digitorum longus gains a mechanical advantage over the lumbrical muscles during the swing phase leading to a clawing of toes.
The extensor digitorum longus muscle fails to relax during early contact leading to the extensor substitution. This mechanical advantage is gained due to the extensor digitorum longus muscle contracting prior to the lumbrical muscles, due to other muscles being weaker (common) or in neuromuscular diseases (especially anterior tibial weakness). Extensor substitution is a common cause of claw toes.