Flexor Digitorum Superficialis

Pointer Plus The Pointer Plus is an easy to use trigger point (TP) locator which incorporates a push button stimulation feature to immediately treat Trigger point pain.

The Flexor digitorum superficialis is a superficial anterior muscle of the forearm.

Anatomical Attachments:

• Origin: This muscle has three heads; the humeral head attaches to the medial epicondyle; the ulnar head attaches to the coronoid process; the radial head attaches to the shaft of the radius.
• Insertion: Attaches by 4 tendons into the middle phalanges of fingers 2-5.

Action: Flexes the wrist, forearm, and the middle and proximal phalanges of fingers 2-5.

Synergist: Abductor pollicis longus, Flexor digitorum profundus, Flexor pollicis longus.

Antagonist: Flexor carpi radialis and ulnaris, Palmaris longus.

Click for Muscle Test 

Nerve Supply: Median Nerve (C7, C8, T1).

Nerve Entrapment: Entraps the ulnar nerve.

Vascular supply: Muscular branches of the ulnar and radial artery.

• Primary: The pain refers to the same digit that the fibers mobilize.
• Satellite or associated triggers: According to Travell and Simons; frequently, triggers within this muscle are activated secondarily, to primary active triggers in the Pectoralis minor and Scalenes; or as a result of a cervical nerve compression.

Click on a small image to view an enlarged image

Trigger Point Signs and Symptoms: There is difficulty in placing their hands behind their head persistently to brush or braid the hair, rolling coins, knitting and hand sewing.

Trigger Point Activating and Perpetuating Factors: Sustained gripping with wrist flexion, which is frequently observed in persons who cup their hands over the end of a chair, or writing for long periods of time.

Differential Diagnosis: (Segmental, Subluxation, Somatic dysfunction) C8 or T1 Radiculopathy, Subacute meningitis or Peripheral neuropathy, Dupuytren’s contracture, Polyneuropathy, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, Raynaud’s Phenomena, Raynaud’s Disease, Frostbite, Diabetic neuropathy, Cubital tunnel syndrome, Systemic lupus erythematosus, Charcot’s arthropathy, Rheumatoid arthritis, Osteoarthritis, Fibromyalgia, Complex regional pain syndrome (Reflex sympathetic Dystrophy), Systemic infections or inflammation, Nutritional inadequacy, Metabolic imbalance, Toxicity, Side effects of medication.

Back to Top