Skip to content
Flexor Digitorum Profundus Anatomy: Origin, Insertion, Action
Last Updated on
Muscle Anatomy of the Flexor Digitorum Profundus
Origin: Anteromedial surfaces of the superior three-quarters of the ulna and adjacent interosseous membrane
Insertion: Volar surface of the distal phalanx of the four digits
Actions: Flexion of the digits
Innervation: Ulnar Nerve (C8, T1 ) and Anterior Interosseous Branch of the Median Nerve
Blood Supply: Muscular branches and the anterior interosseous artery from the ulnar artery and muscular branches from the radial artery
Muscle Anatomy: Flexor Digitorum Profundus
Primary Actions of the Flexor Digitorum Profundus
1. Flexion of the digits at the proximal interphalangeal joints
Agonists:
- Flexor Digitorum Superficialis
Antagonists:
- Lumbricals
- Dorsal Interossei
- Palmar Interossei
- Extensor Digitorum
- Extensor Indicis (second digit)
- Extensor Digiti Minimi (fifth digit)
2. Flexion of the digits at the distal interphalangeal joints
Agonists: None
Antagonists:
- Lumbricals
- Dorsal Interossei
- Palmar Interossei
- Extensor Digitorum
- Extensor Indicis (second digit)
- Extensor Digiti Minimi (fifth digit)
Secondary Actions of the Flexor Digitorum Profundus:
1. Assists with flexion of the digits at the metacarpophalangeal joints
Agonists:
- Flexor Digitorum Superficialis
- Dorsal Interossei
- Flexor Digiti Minimi (fifth digit)
- Palmar Interossei
- Lumbricals
Antagonists:
- Extensor Digitorum
- Extensor Indicis
- Extensor Digiti Minimi
2. Assists with flexion of the wrist
Agonists:
- Flexor Carpi Radialis
- Palmaris Longus
- Flexor Carpi Ulnaris
Antagonists:
- Extensor Carpi Radialis Longus
- Extensor Carpi Radialis Brevis
- Extensor Carpi Ulnaris
Information about cause and effect of Flexor Digitorum Profundus pain:
Flexor Digitorum Profundus Muscle: Twitching Fingers, Hand Finger Pain
Recommended Anatomy Books:
Anatomy Coloring Book
The Anatomy Coloring Book is one of the best study and reference books for beginning anatomy students. The diagrams are clearly labeled and allow you to see the relationship and placement of the various structures of the body. You will also be surprised how the act of coloring will help with recall. But this is not just a beginners book, it is also great for practitioners and therapists to have on hand to use with clients and patients to use as a visual reference.
Human Muscle Anatomy
The Trail Guide To The Body is another excellent book to help you learn the musculature of the human body. Though the book is geared toward massage therapists and physical therapist assistants, the book with its illustrations and text helps anyone gain a thorough understanding of the human musculoskeletal system and movement. I highly recommend this book for anyone studying anatomy and believe that MTs, PTAs, and teachers of body movements should have this book in their possession. I also highly recommend this book for the lay person who wants to gain understanding of the muscle, skeletal system and how our bodies move. This book will not disappoint!
Basic Clinical Massage Therapy
Out of the scores of books in my office Basic Clinical Massage Therapy is by far the most referenced book in my library. The musculoskeletal system is overlaid on human models allowing you to learn the precise location, origin and insertions of each muscle. The models are pictured in various poses throughout the book which also helps you visualize muscles in motion and their actions relationship with the skeletal structure and other muscles. Though it is written for massage therapists, it is an excellent book for anyone who wants to learn about the muscular system. MT's will benefit from recommended treatments for each muscle.
Muscle Anatomy Flashcards
Musculoskeletal Anatomy Flashcards Are you a student or professional therapist who needs to brush up on the musculoskeletal system? Dr. Joseph E. Muscolino DC has developed a comprehensive set of flashcards that will help develop a mind's picture of exactly where the muscles lie under the skin. A highly recommended study aid for students. Great for non students who want an easy comprehensive anatomy guide.
Massage Therapist
Owner: thewellnessdigest.com
Twelve years of experience working with clients with chronic pain, post injury pain, and post surgery pain. Muscle dysfunction is often overlooked but can hold the key to many pain conditions.
