Home Body Atlas Tendons Flexor Digitorum Profundus Tendons
Tendon Hand & Wrist

Flexor Digitorum Profundus Tendons

tendines musculi flexoris digitorum profundi

The FDP tendons pass through the carpal tunnel deep to the FDS tendons, then through the Camper chiasm split of the FDS to insert on the distal phalanx bases. The index FDP has an independent muscle belly; fingers 3-5 share a common muscle belly, linking their excursion (the quadriga effect). FDP is the only flexor of the DIP joint and produces the firm grip force needed for power grasp.

Region: Hand & Wrist
Biomechanics

Function & Actions

DIP joint flexion (primary); assists PIP and MCP flexion

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

The quadriga effect means that if one FDP tendon is shortened (by repair under excessive tension or by tethering adhesion), the remaining FDP tendons connected to the same muscle belly cannot fully flex — producing weakness of the adjacent fingers. Jersey finger (FDP avulsion from the distal phalanx) is managed with surgical reinsertion within 10 days of injury.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Jersey Finger

FDP avulsion from the distal phalanx during jersey grasping producing inability to flex the DIP joint, requiring surgical reinsertion within 10 days for optimal outcome.

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