GENERAL INFORMATION
The Lateral Volar muscles of the hand are a group of muscles located on the palm side of the hand, specifically on the lateral (outer) aspect. They contribute to the movements and functions of the hand.
ORIGIN
The Lateral Volar muscles have various origins depending on the specific muscle within the group. The origin points may include the metacarpal bones, carpal bones, and flexor retinaculum.
INSERTION POINT
The Lateral Volar muscles have various insertion points depending on the specific muscle within the group. The insertion points may include the phalanges (finger bones), extensor expansions, and flexor retinaculum.
MAJOR ARTERIES
The major arteries supplying these muscles of the hand include branches of the radial and ulnar arteries. These arteries provide oxygenated blood to the muscles for their proper functioning.
NEURAL INNERVATION
The median nerve and its branches primarily provide the neural innervation of the Lateral Volar muscles. The specific branches include the recurrent branch of the median nerve and the digital branches.
TRIGGER POINT
Trigger points in these muscles may develop as a result of muscle tension or overuse, leading to localised pain or referred pain patterns in the hand.
CONCENTRIC FUNCTION
The concentric function of the Lateral Volar muscles involves the contraction of the muscle fibres, resulting in specific movements of the hand. These movements may include flexion, adduction, and opposition of the fingers and thumb.
ECCENTRIC FUNCTION
The eccentric function of the Lateral Volar muscles occurs when the muscle fibres lengthen under tension, allowing for controlled release and extension of the fingers and thumb.
ISOMETRIC FUNCTION
The isometric function of the Lateral Volar muscles involves contracting and generating tension without changing their length. This function helps stabilise the hand and maintain grip strength during activities that require a static hold or resistance.
RELATED MUSCLE-SCIENTIFIC NAMES
The Lateral Volar muscles of the hand include various muscles, such as:
- Abductor Digiti Minimi: This muscle abducts the little finger away from the hand.
- Opponens Digiti Minimi: This muscle helps in opposing the little finger towards the thumb.
- Flexor Digiti Minimi Brevis: This muscle flexes the little finger.
- Flexor Digitorum Superficialis: This muscle flexes the fingers at the proximal interphalangeal joints.
ANTAGONIST MUSCLES
The antagonist muscles to the Lateral Volar muscles include the muscles located on the dorsal (back) side of the hand, such as the extensor muscles. These muscles perform actions opposite to those of the Lateral Volar muscles, allowing for fine control and coordination of hand movements.
COMMON INJURIES
Common injuries associated with the Lateral Volar muscles may include:
- Tendinitis: Inflammation or irritation of the tendons within the Lateral Volar muscles due to overuse or repetitive strain.
- Strains or Tears: Overexertion or sudden traumatic events can result in strains or tears of the Lateral Volar muscles.
EXERCISES
Exercises to strengthen and maintain the functionality of the Lateral Volar muscles may include:
- Hand grip exercises: Squeeze a hand gripper or therapy ball to strengthen the muscles.
- Finger flexion exercises: Use resistance bands or therapy putty to perform finger flexion movements.
- Thumb opposition exercises: Touch the thumb to each fingertip in succession to enhance skill and strength.
STRETCHES
Stretching the Lateral Volar muscles can help improve flexibility and prevent stiffness. Some stretches that target these muscles include:
- Finger extension stretch: Gently extend the fingers back with the opposite hand to stretch the muscles.
- Thumb abduction stretches: Pull the thumb away from the palm to stretch the abductor muscles.
- Wrist flexor stretch: Extend the wrist and fingers backwards with the help of the opposite hand to stretch the flexor muscles.
Before starting any exercise or stretching routine, it’s recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or certified hand therapist to ensure proper technique and prevent potential injuries.