What are the key differences between the position of rest and position of function in the hand?

The position of rest has the forearm semiprone, wrist slightly extended, fingers partially flexed (index less so), and thumb at a right angle. The position of function involves more wrist extension, all fingers partially flexed, and thumb rotated to touch the index pulp for precision tasks.

What are the main types of prehensile movements of the hand?

Prehensile movements include power grip (whole hand wraps around an object), precision grip (thumb opposes fingertips, like tripod grip), and hook grip (suspension using flexed fingers without thumb).

How do thumb movements differ from finger movements?

The thumb is rotated 90° medially, so its movements occur in planes perpendicular to the fingers. For example, thumb flexion/extension is in the palm plane, while abduction/adduction is perpendicular to it, unlike fingers where abduction/adduction happens only at the MP joints in an extended position.

What muscles are primarily involved in thumb opposition?

Thumb opposition is primarily performed by the Opponens pollicis muscle, which allows the thumb to move across the palm to touch the fingertips.

What are the functional components of the hand for grip?

The hand has three functional components: central fixed unit (2nd and 3rd metacarpals for stability), radial mobile unit (thumb for precision), and ulnar mobile unit (4th and 5th metacarpals for power grip).

What is the recommended position for immobilizing the hand to prevent contractures?

For immobilization, the hand should be positioned with MP joints fully flexed and IP joints fully extended. This stretches the collateral ligaments, helping to prevent contractures during healing.

Hand Movements – Grip Types, Thumb Actions & Finger Movements