Palmaris longus muscle | |
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![]() Palmaris longus tendon as seen in surface anatomy | |
Details | |
Origin | Medial epicondyle of humerus (common flexor tendon) |
Insertion | Palmar aponeurosis and flexor retinaculum of the hand |
Artery | Ulnar artery |
Nerve | Median nerve |
Actions | Wrist flexor |
Antagonist | Extensor carpi radialis brevis, extensor carpi radialis longus, extensor carpi ulnaris |
Identifiers | |
Latin | musculus palmaris longus |
Greek | μακρός παλαμικός μυς |
TA98 | A04.6.02.029 |
TA2 | 2482 |
FMA | 38462 |
Anatomical terms of muscle |
The palmaris longus is a muscle visible as a small tendon located between the flexor carpi radialis and the flexor carpi ulnaris, although it is not always present. Reviews report rates of absence in the general population ranging from 10–20%; however, the rate varies in different ethnic groups.[1][2][3] Absence of the palmaris longus does not have an effect on grip strength.[4] The lack of palmaris longus muscle does result in decreased pinch strength in fourth and fifth fingers. The absence of palmaris longus muscle is more prevalent in females than males.[5]
The palmaris longus muscle can be observed by touching the pads of the fourth finger and thumb and flexing the wrist. The tendon, if present, will be visible in the midline of the anterior wrist.