Muscles
Flexor digitorum superficialis
Flexes the proximal interphalangeal joints of fingers 2–5.
Overview
Flexes the proximal interphalangeal joints of fingers 2–5. Trigger points here are common in everyday and athletic populations and frequently contribute to the referred pain patterns described below.
Trigger point locations
Anterior forearm middle third.
Referred pain pattern
Palmar surface of the fingers, palm, and anterior wrist.
Palpation & testing
Palpate the muscle belly along its accessible course. Reproduction of the patient's familiar pain on palpation supports involvement.
Common causes
Climbing, musicians, sustained gripping.
Self-care & clinical treatment
Stretches into extension, eccentric work. Clinically: needling.
Symptoms commonly linked
References
- • Travell & Simons — Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction