Metacarpophalangeal and interphalangeal flexion of the thumb: influence of sex and age, relation to ligamentous injury.
Published online: Dec 27 1993
L De Smet, M Urlus, A Spriet, and G Fabry.
University Hospital Pellenberg, Department of Orthopaedics, K.U. Leuven, Pellenberg, Belgium.
Abstract
The flexion of the metacarpophalangeal and interphalangeal joints of both thumbs of 101 normal controls and of 10 patients with ligamentous injuries was measured. There is a close correlation between dominant and nondominant thumbs. With advancing age mobility of both joints decreases significantly. Stiffer joints are more vulnerable to ligamentous injuries.