Abductor muscle

Abductor Muscle

The abductor muscles of the hip.

The abductor muscle is a type of muscle that moves a limb or other part away from the midline of the body, or from another part. It is one of the major muscle groups in the human body and plays a crucial role in our daily movements and activities.

Function

Abductor muscles are primarily responsible for the abduction movement, which involves moving a body part away from the body's midline. They are essential for movements such as lifting an arm or a leg to the side, spreading the fingers or toes, and other similar actions.

Types of Abductor Muscles

There are several types of abductor muscles in the human body, including:

• Abductor pollicis longus: This muscle is located in the forearm and is responsible for the abduction of the thumb.
• Abductor digiti minimi (hand): This muscle is located in the hand and is responsible for the abduction of the little finger.
• Abductor hallucis: This muscle is located in the foot and is responsible for the abduction of the big toe.
• Abductor digiti minimi (foot): This muscle is located in the foot and is responsible for the abduction of the little toe.
• Abductor pollicis brevis: This muscle is located in the hand and is responsible for the abduction of the thumb.

Clinical Significance

Abductor muscles are often the target of physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises, especially in patients who have suffered from stroke, muscular dystrophy, or other conditions that affect muscle control and function. Strengthening these muscles can help improve balance, stability, and coordination.

See Also

• Adductor muscle
• Muscular system
• Human anatomy