To selectively strengthen the flexor digitorum superficialis using manual resistance exercise, position the patient's forearm in supination and wrist in neutral on a table.What should happen next?
A)Stabilize the metacarpophalangeal and proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joints in neutral, then apply resistance to the distal phalanx as the patient flexes the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint.
B)Stabilize the metacarpophalangeal and DIP joints in neutral, then apply resistance to the middle phalanx as the patient flexes the PIP joint.
C)Stabilize the PIP and DIP joints in neutral, then apply resistance to the proximal phalanx as the patient flexes the metacarpophalangeal joint.
D)Without additional stabilization, apply resistance to the distal phalanx and ask the patient to flex the metacarpophalangeal, PIP, and DIP joints simultaneously.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The flexor digitorum superficialis muscle is responsible for flexing the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joints of the fingers. To isolate this muscle, the metacarpophalangeal and distal interphalangeal (DIP) joints must be stabilized in neutral, and resistance should be applied to the middle phalanx as the patient attempts to flex the PIP joint. This ensures that the exercise specifically targets the action of the flexor digitorum superficialis.

To Selectively Strengthen the Flexor Digitorum Superficialis Using Manual Resistance