Here are 5 examples of sesamoid bones, specifically found in the hand, as detailed in the provided reference:
Sesamoid Bones in the Hand
Sesamoid bones are small, round bones embedded within tendons. In the hand, they play crucial roles in movement and force distribution. The reference indicates that there are typically five sesamoid bones in each hand, found at specific joint locations:
Locations of Sesamoid Bones
| # | Location | Bone |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint of the thumb | Sesamoid bone on the radial side of thumb. |
| 2 | Metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint of the thumb | Sesamoid bone on the ulnar side of the thumb. |
| 3 | Interphalangeal (IP) joint of the thumb | Sesamoid bone located at the interphalangeal joint. |
| 4 | Metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint of index finger | Sesamoid bone on the radial side of the index finger. |
| 5 | Metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint of little finger | Sesamoid bone on the ulnar side of the little finger. |
These sesamoid bones help improve the mechanical advantage of the tendons, enhancing grip strength and joint movement. They also help reduce friction and pressure on the tendons.
Importance of Sesamoid Bones:
- Mechanical Advantage: Sesamoid bones increase the lever arm of tendons, allowing for more efficient muscle force generation.
- Protection: They protect tendons from wear and tear by reducing friction and pressure against underlying bony structures.
- Joint Movement: Sesamoid bones facilitate smooth and controlled joint movement.
- Force Distribution: They help distribute forces evenly across the joint, preventing excessive stress on any one point.
