thenar
The term "thenar" refers to the fleshy mass located at the base of the thumb. This area is crucial for thumb movement and function, allowing for a wide range of motions such as opposition, which is the ability to touch the thumb to the other fingers. The thenar eminence is made up of several muscles that work together to facilitate gripping and pinching actions.
The muscles of the thenar region include the abductor pollicis brevis, flexor pollicis brevis, and opponens pollicis. These muscles are innervated primarily by the median nerve, which plays a significant role in hand dexterity. Proper function of the thenar eminence is essential for many daily activities, from writing to using tools.