Flexor Digitorum Superficialis

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The Flexor Digitorum Superficialis is the only muscle in the Intermediate Layer of the Anterior Forearm Compartment.

The Flexor Digitorum Superficialis has two heads: Humeroulnar and Radial.

ATTACHMENTS:

• Medial epicondyle of the humerus via the common flexor belly/tendon to the anterior surfaces of fingers #2-5 (index, middle, ring, little).
  • The flexor digitorum superficialis also attaches proximally onto the anterior ulna and radius.
  • Each distal tendon divides and attaches onto the medial and lateral sides of the anterior surface of the middle phalanx.

ACTIONS:

• Flexes fingers #2-5 at the metacarpophalangeal and proximal interphalangeal joints.
• Flexes the hand at the wrist joint.
• Flexes the forearm at the elbow joint.

NOTES:

1. The flexor digitorum superficialis is one of five muscles of the common flexor belly/tendon that is involved with medial elbow tendinopathy (aka golfer’s elbow).
2. The distal tendons of the flexor digitorum superficialis split to allow passage through them of the distal tendons of the flexor digitorum profundus.
3. The distal tendons of the flexor digitorum superficialis run through the carpal tunnel and can be involved with carpal tunnel syndrome.