GENERAL INFORMATION
The medial volar muscle is a small muscle located in the palm. It contributes to the movements of the fingers and plays a role in grasping and gripping actions.
ORIGIN
This muscle originates from the palmar aponeurosis, which is a broad, flat tendon located in the palm.
INSERTION POINT
The medial volar muscle inserts onto the medial side (ulnar side) of the base of the proximal phalanx of the little finger.
MAJOR ARTERIES
This muscle receives its blood supply from branches of the ulnar artery, such as the deep palmar arch. These arteries provide oxygenated blood to the muscle for its proper function.
NEURAL INNERVATION
The deep branch of the ulnar nerve innervates the medial volar muscle. The ulnar nerve arises from the brachial plexus and provides motor innervation to the muscle.
TRIGGER POINT
Trigger points in this muscle may develop due to muscle tension or overuse. These trigger points can cause localised pain, tenderness, or referred pain patterns in the hand and little finger.
CONCENTRIC FUNCTION
The concentric function of the medial volar muscle involves the contraction of the muscle fibres, resulting in flexion of the little finger. This contraction allows for movements that involve bending the little finger toward the palm.
ECCENTRIC FUNCTION
The eccentric function of the medial volar muscle occurs when the muscle fibres lengthen under tension. This function assists in the controlled extension of the little finger away from the palm.
ISOMETRIC FUNCTION
The isometric function of this muscle involves contracting and generating tension without changing the length of the muscle. This function aids in stabilising the little finger during activities that require a static hold or resistance.
RELATED MUSCLE SCIENTIFIC NAMES
The medial volar muscle is also known by its scientific name:
- Musculus palmaris brevis: This small muscle is essential for the flexion and stabilisation of the little finger, aiding in gripping and grasping actions.
ANTAGONIST MUSCLES
The antagonist muscles to the medial volar muscle include the extensor muscles located on the dorsal side of the hand. These muscles work in opposition to the medial volar muscle, allowing for coordinated movements of the fingers and hand.
COMMON INJURIES
Common injuries associated with the medial volar muscle may include:
- Strain or sprain: Overexertion or sudden traumatic events can lead to strain or sprain in the medial volar muscle.
- Tendinitis: Inflammation or irritation of the tendon of the medial volar muscle due to repetitive use or strain.
EXERCISES
Exercises that target and strengthen the medial volar muscle include:
- Finger flexion exercises: Bend the fingers toward the palm using resistance bands or small weights.
- Grip strengthening exercises: Squeeze a hand gripper or therapy ball to improve overall hand strength.
- Hand squeezing exercises: Practice squeezing objects of different sizes and resistances to enhance grip strength and endurance.
STRETCHES
Stretching the medial volar muscle can help improve flexibility and prevent stiffness. Some stretches that target this muscle include:
- Finger extension stretch: Extend the fingers backwards gently with the opposite hand.
- Wrist flexion stretches: Flex the wrist while keeping the fingers straight to stretch the muscles in the palm and hand.
- Hand opening stretch: Spread the fingers wide apart and hold to stretch the muscles in the palm.