Oblique Head of the Abductor Pollicis Muscle as, Anterior View

Description

Arising deep in the thenar eminence, the oblique head of adductor pollicis occupies the central palm, coursing from the capitate and bases of the second and third metacarpals distally and laterally toward the ulnar sesamoid and base of the proximal phalanx of the thumb. From an anterior (palmar) perspective, the first metacarpal and thumb phalanges lie lateral, while the second and third metacarpals sit medial and form the muscular origin bed. Carpal bones at the wrist form the proximal boundary, with interphalangeal and metacarpophalangeal joint regions indicated by tinted articular surfaces. Deep, short, and triangular. The distal fibers converge into a compact tendon inserting on the ulnar side of the thumb MCP joint. This palmar view matters because adductor pollicis is the prime mover for key pinch and a consistent landmark for the deep palmar anatomy, sitting close to the course of the deep branch of the ulnar nerve and deep palmar arterial arch. Weakness of pinch and loss of thenar bulk in ulnar neuropathy often reflect denervation of this muscle, and the adductor pollicis pinch test (Froment sign) hinges on its function at the thumb metacarpophalangeal joint. Surgeons also reference its insertions and sesamoid complex when assessing traumatic ulnar collateral ligament injuries of the thumb and planning volar approaches around the MCP joint. Ideal for gross anatomy labs covering intrinsic hand muscles, for hand surgery atlases discussing pinch mechanics and ulnar nerve lesions, and for rehab education materials on thenar strengthening after nerve repair or tendon transfer. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.