Flexor pollicis longus, also known as m. f. pollicis longus, is one of the important muscles of the hand responsible for the movement of the thumb. It is located in the forearm and plays an important role in performing various hand movements such as squeezing and flexing the thumb.
Anatomy and function
The flexor pollicis longus muscle is a long muscle that runs along the front of the forearm. It begins in the area of the cubital fossa and runs along the inner surface of the forearm, penetrating through the canal into the wrist and ending at the base of the first phalanx of the thumb.
The main function of the flexor pollicis longus is to flex the thumb at the wrist joint and the joint between the first and second phalanges. It is also involved in wrist flexion and several other arm movements.
Development and trauma
The flexor pollicis longus develops during embryonic development and is formed from the mesoderm. Over the course of a person's life, he may be exposed to various injuries or damages that may impair his function.
One of the common injuries associated with the flexor pollicis longus is a tear. This can happen as a result of a sudden stretch of the muscle, for example, when falling on an outstretched arm or from a strong blow. A flexor pollicis longus tear can result in limited movement of the thumb and require medical intervention to restore function.
Treatment and rehabilitation
If you have a flexor pollicis injury, it is important to see a medical professional for diagnosis and to determine the best treatment approach. In some cases, surgery may be required to repair the torn muscle.
After surgery or during conservative treatment, including physical therapy, rehabilitation exercises play an important role in restoring the function of the flexor pollicis longus. They are aimed at strengthening the muscle, restoring flexibility and increasing the overall functionality of the hand.
In conclusion, the flexor pollicis longus muscle is an important muscle responsible for flexing the thumb and performing other hand movements. If this muscle is injured or damaged, consultation with a specialist and proper treatment are necessary to restore function and return to normal activity of the arm. Regular rehabilitation exercises are also an important part of the recovery process and help strengthen muscles and restore full range of motion.
The flexors are the muscles that flex the wrist at the wrist joint. In this case we are talking about the flexor pollicis, which is also called the flexor pollicis longus or flexor index. Another name for this muscle is m. pollicus longus