Extensor pollicis brevis

Definition

The extensor pollicis brevis is a small skeletal muscle located in the forearm that helps to extend and abduct the thumb at the carpometacarpal and metacarpophalangeal joints. It is part of the deep posterior compartment of the forearm and plays a crucial role in thumb movement.

Related terms

Abductor Pollicis Longus: A muscle in the forearm that abducts and extends the thumb at the carpometacarpal joint.

Extensor Pollicis Longus: A muscle that extends the thumb at all joints, facilitating its straightening completely.

Carpometacarpal Joint:

The joint between the carpal bones (wrist bones) and the first metacarpal bone (the bone in the hand leading to the thumb), allowing for a wide range of thumb movement