GENERAL INFORMATION
The opponens pollicis is a small muscle located in the palm. It plays a vital role in the movement and positioning of the thumb, allowing for opposition and precision grip.
ORIGIN
This muscle originates from the tubercle of the trapezium bone and the flexor retinaculum, which is a band of connective tissue in the wrist.
INSERTION POINT
The opponens pollicis inserts onto the lateral side of the first metacarpal bone, specifically the entire length of the metacarpal shaft.
MAJOR ARTERIES
This muscle receives its blood supply from branches of the radial artery, such as the princeps pollicis artery. These arteries provide oxygenated blood to the muscle to support its function.
NEURAL INNERVATION
The recurrent branch of the median nerve primarily innervates this muscle. The median nerve arises from the brachial plexus and provides motor innervation to the muscle.
TRIGGER POINT
Trigger points in the opponens pollicis may develop as a result of muscle tension or overuse. These trigger points can cause localised pain, tenderness, or referred pain patterns in the hand and thumb.
CONCENTRIC FUNCTION
The concentric function of this muscle involves the contraction of the muscle fibres. This contraction brings the thumb toward the palm, allowing for opposition and precision grip.
ECCENTRIC FUNCTION
The eccentric function of the opponens pollicis occurs when the muscle fibres lengthen under tension. This function allows for controlled release and extension of the thumb.
ISOMETRIC FUNCTION
The isometric function of this muscle involves contracting and generating tension without changing the length of the muscle. This function helps stabilise the thumb during activities that require a static hold or resistance.
RELATED MUSCLE SCIENTIFIC NAMES
Its scientific name is also known the opponens pollicis:
- Musculus opponens pollicis: This muscle is essential for the opposition movement of the thumb, enabling it to touch the fingertips for precision tasks.
ANTAGONIST MUSCLES
The antagonist muscles to the opponens pollicis include the muscles located on the radial side of the forearm, such as the extensor muscles. These muscles perform actions opposite to those of the Opponens pollicis, allowing for coordinated movements of the hand and thumb.
COMMON INJURIES
Common injuries associated with the opponens pollicis may include:
- Tendinitis: Inflammation or irritation of the tendon of the opponens pollicis due to overuse or repetitive strain.
- Muscle Strain: Overexertion or sudden traumatic events can lead to strain or tears in the opponens pollicis muscle.
EXERCISES
Exercises to strengthen and maintain the functionality of the opponens pollicis may include:
- Thumb opposition exercises: Move the thumb to touch the tips of each finger sequentially to strengthen opposition.
- Pinch grip exercises: Squeeze small objects between the thumb and fingers to improve grip strength.
- Hand dexterity exercises: Practice tasks that require fine motor skills, such as manipulating small objects or playing musical instruments.
STRETCHES
Stretching the opponens pollicis can help improve flexibility and prevent stiffness. Some stretches that target this muscle include:
- Thumb extension stretch: Extend the thumb away from the palm and hold the position to stretch the muscle.
- Thumb abduction stretches: Pull the thumb gently away from the hand to stretch the abductor muscles.
- Wrist flexion stretches: Flex the wrist while keeping the fingers straight to stretch the muscles in the thumb and hand.