The extensor pollicis longus is a deep muscle in the forearm that extends the thumb at both the metacarpophalangeal and interphalangeal joints. It enables precise thumb movements such as reaching, pinching, and releasing. It also helps stabilize the thumb during gripping and fine motor tasks.
Etymology:
From Latin: extensor means "stretcher," pollicis means "of the thumb," and longus means "long," referring to its length and function in extending the thumb.
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