Abductor pollicis longus

Schematic anatomy
Deep layerAbductor pollicis longus

Arms

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Biceps

Long headShort headBrachialis · supporting muscle

Triceps

Long headLateral headMedial head

Forearms

BrachioradialisFlexor carpi radialisFlexor carpi ulnarisFlexor digitorum superficialisFlexor digitorum profundusFlexor pollicis longusExtensor carpi radialis longus & brevisExtensor carpi ulnarisExtensor digitorumExtensor pollicis longus & brevisAbductor pollicis longusPronator teresPronator quadratusSupinator

Hands

Abductor pollicis brevisFlexor pollicis brevisOpponens pollicisAdductor pollicisHypothenar musclesLumbricalsDorsal interosseiPalmar interossei
Movement guide

Abductor pollicis longus

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Moves the thumb away from the hand at its base.

Thumb abduction loads several muscles; the exact contribution depends on the direction of movement.

01

Thumb lift

Thumb abduction · Light band

Also works

Abductor pollicis brevis and other thumb stabilizers

How to perform

With your palm facing up, lift your thumb away from the plane of the palm against light resistance.

Keep the thumb gently curved and the wrist supported.

Example volume · 1–2 sets × 8–12 reps

Referenceswww.guysandstthomas.nhs.uk

Community draft · awaiting expert review