Dorsal Interossei (Hand)

Region: Forearm & Hand Muscles · All forearm & hand muscles

Dorsal Interossei (Hand) at a glance

OriginAdjacent sides of the metacarpals (two heads each)
InsertionExtensor expansions and bases of the proximal phalanges of the index, middle and ring fingers
ActionsSpread the fingers apart (abduction) — 'DAB'; Help bend the knuckles while straightening the finger joints
Nerve supplyUlnar nerve, deep branch (C8–T1)

◆ Good to know

The first dorsal interosseous (between thumb and index) is the muscle that visibly wastes early in ulnar and motor neurone problems.

Please note: This page is an anatomy education summary for students and curious readers, not medical advice. Attachment points are given in their classic short form; individual anatomy varies, and detailed dissection-level descriptions belong in an anatomy atlas.