Collateral ligaments of metacarpophalangeal joints

Collateral ligaments of metacarpophalangeal joints are a set of ligaments found in the hand. They are located on either side of the metacarpophalangeal joint (MCP), which is the joint at the base of each finger. These ligaments play a crucial role in the stability and movement of the fingers.

Etymology

The term "collateral" is derived from the Latin word "collaterale," which means "side by side." "Ligament" comes from the Latin "ligamentum," meaning "a band." "Metacarpophalangeal" is a compound word made up of "metacarpus" (the part of the hand between the wrist and fingers) and "phalanges" (the bones of the fingers and toes).

Anatomy

The collateral ligaments of metacarpophalangeal joints are composed of two parts: the radial collateral ligament and the ulnar collateral ligament. These ligaments are named for their proximity to the radius and ulna, the two bones of the forearm.

The radial collateral ligament extends from the head of the metacarpal bone to the proximal phalanx on the thumb side of the hand. The ulnar collateral ligament extends from the head of the metacarpal bone to the proximal phalanx on the little finger side of the hand.

Function

The primary function of the collateral ligaments of metacarpophalangeal joints is to provide stability to the fingers during movement. They prevent excessive side-to-side movement of the fingers, which could lead to injury.

Related Terms

• Metacarpophalangeal joint
• Radial collateral ligament
• Ulnar collateral ligament
• Radius
• Ulna

See Also

• Hand anatomy
• Ligament
• Joint

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