Abductor digiti minimi manus

Abductor digiti minimi manus

The abductor digiti minimi manus is a muscle located in the hand. It is responsible for the abduction of the little finger, which means moving it away from the other fingers. In this article, we will explore the anatomy, function, and clinical significance of the abductor digiti minimi manus.

Anatomy

The abductor digiti minimi manus is one of the intrinsic muscles of the hand. It is located on the ulnar side of the palm, specifically in the hypothenar eminence. This muscle originates from the pisiform bone and the flexor retinaculum, and inserts into the base of the proximal phalanx of the little finger.

Function

The main function of the abductor digiti minimi manus is to abduct the little finger. This movement is important for various activities that involve spreading or separating the fingers, such as playing musical instruments, typing, and gripping objects.

Clinical Significance

Injuries or conditions affecting the abductor digiti minimi manus can lead to functional limitations and discomfort. Some common clinical issues related to this muscle include:

- Abductor digiti minimi manus strain: This refers to the overstretching or tearing of the muscle fibers, usually caused by repetitive or forceful movements. Symptoms may include pain, weakness, and difficulty in moving the little finger.

- Carpal tunnel syndrome: Compression of the median nerve in the wrist can result in symptoms such as pain, numbness, and weakness in the hand. In some cases, the abductor digiti minimi manus may be affected, leading to weakness in the abduction of the little finger.

- Ulnar nerve entrapment: The ulnar nerve can become compressed or entrapped at various sites along its course, including the wrist. If the nerve is affected near the abductor digiti minimi manus, it can result in weakness or loss of function in the muscle.

See Also

• Hand anatomy
• Intrinsic muscles of the hand
• Muscles of the hand