Palmar interossei

Definition

The palmar interossei are a group of three small muscles located in the palm of the hand that originate from the metacarpal bones and insert into the proximal phalanges and the extensor expansion. They are responsible for adducting (bringing together) the fingers towards the middle finger and assisting in finger flexion at the metacarpophalangeal joints, while also extending the interphalangeal joints.

Related terms

Dorsal Interossei: Four muscles located between the bones of the hand that abduct (spread apart) the fingers away from the midline.

Flexor Digitorum Profundus: A muscle that flexes (bends) the fingers at both the interphalangeal and metacarpophalangeal joints.

Extensor Expansion: A complex network of tendons on the back of each finger that allows for extension of both interphalangeal joints