The Palmaris Longus, a muscle absent in about 13% of individuals, plays an essential role in hand and wrist activities.
Located within the superficial layer of forearm muscles, it primarily aids in wrist flexion and in tensing the palmar fascia.
This muscle not only contributes to wrist flexion but also regulates the supination of the hand and elbow extension.
Trigger points in the Palmaris Longus can cause significant discomfort, often manifesting as sharp, needle-like sensations in the palm and forearm. These points typically arise from repetitive strain or direct trauma, leading to pain that can affect hand and wrist functionality.
Symptoms:
Needle-like pain in the palm, distinct from deeper myofascial trigger point ache.
Radiating discomfort from the thumb's base to the distal crease of the palm.
Forearm discomfort during hand movements such as grasping or cupping.
Causes:
Impact trauma from falls, particularly onto an outstretched arm.
Overuse injuries common in racquet sports and similar activities.
Chronic gripping or prolonged use of vibrating power tools.
Trigger Point Referred Pain Patterns:
Localized pain in the anterior forearm.
Intense palm pain zones with surrounding prickling sensations.
Treatment and Rehabilitation Strategies:
Precise trigger point treatments, including compression & dry needling.
Targeted self-massage, using therapy balls to release muscle tension in the forearm & wrist.
Wrist flexor stretches and rotational exercises for flexibility.
Wrist curls and reverse wrist curls to strengthen surrounding muscles.
Grip exercises with hand grippers or stress balls for muscle endurance.
Activity modification and ergonomic advice to prevent strain.
If you need assistance in the aforementioned then please feel free to schedule a consultation session with Chris Heunis.
Chris Heunis
Clinical Therapist
Healing Hands Jeffreys Bay & Eastern Cape
Member of CAMS (Complimentary & Alternative Medical Science) Institute
Tel No: 084 767 2913
Email: healinghandsg@gmail.com
Bookings: http://prohealing.booksy.net
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