What tendons insert on the proximal phalanx?

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Last updated: April 16, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Guidelines

The tendons that insert on the proximal phalanx include the extensor digitorum, flexor digitorum superficialis, lumbrical muscles, and interossei muscles. These tendons play a crucial role in finger movement and hand function, with the extensor digitorum facilitating finger extension and the flexor digitorum superficialis contributing to finger flexion 1. The lumbrical and interossei muscles provide fine motor control, allowing for precise movements of the fingers. Key points to consider include:

  • The extensor digitorum and flexor digitorum superficialis tendons are essential for finger movement
  • The lumbrical and interossei muscles enable fine motor control
  • Understanding these tendon insertions is vital for diagnosing and treating hand injuries, as damage to these structures can significantly impact hand function and dexterity 1. It is also important to note that while other tendons, such as the flexor digitorum profundus, insert on the distal phalanx, the tendons inserting on the proximal phalanx are critical for overall hand function 1.

From the Research

Tendons Inserting on the Proximal Phalanx

The tendons that insert on the proximal phalanx are:

  • Flexor digitorum profundus (FDP) tendon, which inserts on the distal phalanx but has a connection to the proximal phalanx through the flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS) tendon 2, 3, 4
  • Flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS) tendon, which inserts on the middle phalanx but has a connection to the proximal phalanx 5, 3, 4

Specific Insertion Points

  • The FDP tendon inserts on the distal phalanx, but its action is related to the movement of the proximal phalanx 2, 3, 4
  • The FDS tendon inserts on the middle phalanx, and its connection to the proximal phalanx is through the tendon sheath and the pulley system 5, 3, 4

Clinical Relevance

  • Injuries to the FDP and FDS tendons can affect the movement of the proximal phalanx 2, 5, 3, 4, 6
  • Repair of these tendons is crucial to restore normal function and movement of the fingers 2, 3, 4

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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