GENERAL INFORMATION
The lumbrical muscles are a group of muscles located in the hand. They play a crucial role in controlling the movement and function of the fingers. The lumbricals are unique in that they originate from the tendons of the flexor digitorum profundus muscles rather than having their specific origin.
ORIGIN
The lumbrical muscles originate from the tendons of the flexor digitorum profundus muscles in the hand. Specifically, each lumbrical originates from the radial side of the tendon of its corresponding finger.
INSERTION POINT
This muscles insert onto the extensor expansion of the fingers. They attach near the base of the proximal phalanx and extend to the extensor hood mechanism, allowing for coordinated movement of the fingers.
MAJOR ARTERIES
The lumbrical muscles receive their blood supply from branches of the radial and ulnar arteries, ensuring proper oxygenation and nutrition to support muscle function.
NEURAL INNERVATION
The deep branch of the ulnar nerve innervates the lumbrical muscles. This nerve arises from the brachial plexus and provides both sensory and motor innervation to the muscles.
TRIGGER POINT
Trigger points may develop in the lumbrical muscles due to muscle tension, overuse, or injury. These trigger points can cause localised pain, tenderness, or referred pain in the hand and fingers.
CONCENTRIC FUNCTION
The concentric function of the lumbrical muscles involves the contraction of the muscle fibres, resulting in the flexion of the metacarpophalangeal joints and the extension of the interphalangeal joints. This contraction allows for actions such as gripping objects and bending the fingers.
ECCENTRIC FUNCTION
The eccentric function of the lumbrical muscles occurs when the muscle fibres lengthen under tension. This function assists in controlled relaxation and return to the neutral position of the fingers.
ISOMETRIC FUNCTION
The isometric function of the lumbrical muscles involves contracting and generating tension without changing the length of the muscles. This function helps maintain stability and support in the fingers during various hand movements.
RELATED MUSCLE-SCIENTIFIC NAMES
- Lumbricales manus: These muscles play a vital role in the coordinated movement of the fingers, particularly in flexing the metacarpophalangeal joints and extending the interphalangeal joints.
ANTAGONIST MUSCLES
The antagonist muscles to the lumbrical muscles include the flexor muscles of the hand, such as the flexor digitorum profundus and the flexor digitorum superficialis. These muscles work in opposition to the lumbrical muscles, allowing for coordinated movements and control of the fingers.
COMMON INJURIES
- Strain or sprain: Overexertion or sudden traumatic events can lead to strain or sprain in the lumbrical muscles.
- Tendinitis: Inflammation or irritation of the tendons of the lumbrical muscles due to repetitive use or strain.
EXERCISES
- Finger extensions: Perform exercises that involve extending the fingers against resistance, such as using therapy putty or hand grip strengtheners.
- Finger coordination exercises: Practice exercises that involve coordinated movements of the fingers, such as playing musical instruments or typing.
- Grip strengthening exercises: Perform exercises that target overall grip strength, indirectly strengthening the lumbrical muscles.
- Finger abduction exercises: Use rubber bands around the fingers to perform abduction movements, targeting the lumbricals.
- Therapy ball squeezes: Squeeze a therapy ball to enhance overall hand strength, including the lumbrical muscles.
STRETCHES
- Finger flexion stretches: Gently bend the fingers, individually or collectively, to stretch the lumbrical muscles.
- Hand and wrist stretch: Perform stretches that target the flexibility and mobility of the hand and wrist, including stretches for the fingers and lumbrical muscles.
- Individual finger stretches: Stretch each finger individually to improve overall hand flexibility and function.
- Palmar stretch: Place the palm flat on a table and gently press down to stretch the palmar and lumbrical muscles.
- Wrist flexor stretches: Extend the wrist while keeping the fingers straight to stretch the muscles of the hand, including the lumbricals.
It’s important to note that before starting any exercise or stretching routine, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or a certified hand therapist to ensure proper technique and to prevent any potential injuries.