Abductor Policis Longus Stretch (Hand)

If you wonder how to stretch the abductor policis longus muscle, this article will show you the exact steps on how to do it, and why you should stretch this muscle.

Abductor policis longus stretch is a thumb movement that stretches the upper and outer part of your thumb.

Abductor policis longus muscle function is to abduct the thumb away from the palm (move away).

Abductor Policis Longus Stretch

Dynamic Abductor Policis Longus Stretch

Extend your right arm straight in front of you at shoulder height.
Gently push your right thumb forward, toward the palm of your hand, while keeping your arm straight.
Hold for 5 seconds, feeling a stretch in your forearm and wrist.
Release and repeat on the opposite side.
Do 10 repetitions on each side.

Static Abductor Policis Longus Stretch

Extend your right arm straight out in front of you at shoulder height.
Bend your wrist downward so your fingers point towards the ground.
Grasp your thumb with your fingers and gently pull the thumb towards the little finger direction.
Hold the stretch for 30 seconds, feeling a gentle pull.
Release and repeat on the opposite side.

Why Should You Stretch Abductor Policis Longus?

Constant strain or overuse of the wrist or thumb can lead to abductor policis longus injury.

De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is another possible cause for this muscle pain.

And if you’re a real gamer or someone who works on a computer typing on a keyboard a lot, you can end up with abductor policis longus pain and inflammation.

Stretching regularly can help you prevent this muscle pain and ensure you a pain-free experience when working or/and gaming.

Author

My name is Trivo. I'm a physiotherapist and I enjoy exercising, learning new stuff in physio and fitness world, and sharing my knowledge and point of view in this field.

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