The transverse head originates from the entire third metacarpal shaft, providing a transverse pull compressing the first metacarpal toward the midline.
| Origin | Palmar surface of the third metacarpal shaft, full length |
|---|---|
| Insertion | Ulnar base of thumb proximal phalanx via a sesamoid bone |
| Nerve Supply | Deep branch of ulnar nerve (C8, T1) |
| Blood Supply | Princeps pollicis artery branch |
| Actions |
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|---|
It adducts the thumb toward the middle finger, providing pinch force and stabilising the thumb in grip.
In Dupuytren's disease, natatory ligaments blend with the transverse head in the first web space. Web space contracture from adductor spasticity in cerebral palsy is treated by intramuscular botulinum toxin injection.
Palpated as the deep first web space muscle, the more distally placed bulk compared to the oblique head.
Transverse head hypertonicity in cerebral palsy producing thumb-in-palm deformity, managed by botulinum toxin and splinting.
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