Muscle
Opponens pollicis
Thenar - opposes the thumb
High-yield
Opposes the thumb (rotates 1st metacarpal); key for pinch grip. Recurrent branch of median nerve.
Overview
The deep thenar muscle that rotates the thumb metacarpal into opposition, essential for grip and pinch. Recurrent median branch.
Reference facts
- Origin
- Flexor retinaculum and tubercle of the trapezium
- Insertion
- Lateral border of the 1st metacarpal
- Action
- Opposes the thumb - draws the 1st metacarpal medially and rotates it toward the palm
- Innervation
- Recurrent branch of the median nerve (C8, T1)
- Blood supply
- Superficial palmar branch of the radial artery
Frequently asked questions
What does the opponens pollicis do?
The opponens pollicis opposes the thumb - draws the 1st metacarpal medially and rotates it toward the palm.
What nerve innervates the opponens pollicis?
The opponens pollicis is innervated by the recurrent branch of the median nerve (C8, T1).
Where does the opponens pollicis attach?
The opponens pollicis originates from the flexor retinaculum and tubercle of the trapezium and inserts on the lateral border of the 1st metacarpal.
What is the blood supply of the opponens pollicis?
The opponens pollicis is supplied by the superficial palmar branch of the radial artery.