Hypothenar eminence

Hypothenar eminence is a group of three muscles of the palm that control the movement of the little finger. The term "hypothenar" comes from the Greek words "hypo" meaning under and "thenar" meaning palm. The hypothenar eminence is located at the base of the little finger and is responsible for the flexion, abduction, and opposition of the little finger.

Anatomy

The hypothenar eminence consists of three muscles: the abductor digiti minimi, the flexor digiti minimi brevis, and the opponens digiti minimi. These muscles originate from the carpal bones and attach to the proximal phalanx of the little finger. The hypothenar muscles are innervated by the ulnar nerve and receive blood supply from the ulnar artery.

Function

The primary function of the hypothenar eminence is to facilitate movement of the little finger. The abductor digiti minimi muscle allows for the abduction of the little finger away from the hand. The flexor digiti minimi brevis muscle enables the flexion of the little finger at the metacarpophalangeal joint. The opponens digiti minimi muscle allows for the opposition of the little finger, enabling it to touch the thumb.

Clinical significance

Damage to the ulnar nerve can lead to a loss of function of the hypothenar eminence, resulting in a condition known as claw hand. This condition is characterized by the inability to flex the little finger and the ring finger. Other conditions that can affect the hypothenar eminence include hypothenar hammer syndrome, which is caused by repeated trauma to the hypothenar eminence, and Guyon's canal syndrome, which is caused by compression of the ulnar nerve.

See also

• Thenar eminence
• Hand anatomy
• Ulnar nerve
• Carpal bones

References

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