The primary tendon on the thumb side of the wrist is the Abductor Pollicis Longus (APL).
The Abductor Pollicis Longus (APL) tendon is a key structure responsible for thumb movement. Here’s a breakdown:
- Location: The APL tendon runs on the radial side of the wrist (the side of the wrist where the thumb is located).
- Function: This tendon is essential for thumb abduction, which is the movement of moving the thumb away from the palm of the hand.
- Anatomy: The muscle belly of the APL is located in the forearm. The tendon then travels through a retinaculum (a tough band of tissue) that holds the tendon in place as it crosses the wrist, allowing it to slide smoothly during movement.
