Extensor Pollicis Longus Muscle
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Extensor Pollicis Longus Muscle

Extensor Pollicis Longus Muscle Anatomy

EPL muscle

The extensor pollicis longus (EPL) is a thin muscle of the forearm that belongs to the posterior muscle group, lying in the second or deep layer.

Origin :

It originates from the posterior surface of middle-third of ulna and interosseous membrane.

Insertion :

It inserts on the posterior aspect of the base of distal phalanx of thumb.

Nerve supply :

The posterior interosseous nerve innervates the muscle.

Blood Supply :

The Posterior interosseous artery supplies the muscle.

Action :

It acts as a weak extensor of hand and strong extensor of the thumb.

Function :

The main action of extensor pollicis longus is extension of the thumb at the metacarpophalangeal and interphalangeal joints. Extension at the metacarpophalangeal joint occurs in synergy with extensor pollicis brevis muscle. When the thumb reaches the full extension or abduction, extensor pollicis longus can also assist in adduction of the thumb.

Strengthening Exercise :

EPL Strengthening Exercise
EPL Strengthening Exercise
  • Wrap the rubber band around all your fingers, having it rest right above your knuckles. Have your elbow resting on a surface like the arm of a chair or a table.
  • When you’re ready, open your hand against the resistance of the rubber band and then slowly turn back into the closed finger position.
  • Hold your movement at the open position for a moment before retracting back. Repeat for 3 sets of 10 reps. Make sure to switch hands.

Stretching Exercises :

epl stretch
epl stretch
  • Hold onto your thumb firmly with your other four fingers.
  • While keeping your wrist in a neutral position, turn your wrist down toward the floor.
  • Mild stretch will feel near the thumb.
  • Hold this position for 30 secs and the release it.
  • Repeat the exercise for 3 times.

Related pathology :

Drummers palsy

Inflammation or a rupture of extensor pollicis longus tendon is commonly referred to as “drummer’s paralysis”. This condition is most commonly caused by blunt mechanical injuries to the wrist area or a simple overuse of the extensor pollicis longus muscle. It is most commonly seen in drummers, sculptors, blacksmiths or waiters. This condition results in weakness of extensor pollicis longus, which is presented as an incomplete extension of the thumb.

For more hand muscle related post :

Abductor Pollicis Longus
Abductor Pollicis Longus

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