If a client presents with pain during thumb extension and abduction, which muscle might be involved?

The involvement of the abductor pollicis longus muscle is a logical conclusion when a client experiences pain during thumb extension and abduction. This muscle plays a crucial role in the movements of both extending and abducting the thumb. Specifically, it is responsible for abducting the thumb away from the hand, as well as assisting in the extension of the thumb at the carpometacarpal joint.

When there is pain associated with these movements, it often indicates that the abductor pollicis longus muscle may be strained, overused, or potentially injured. This could be due to repetitive movements, poor ergonomic practices, or other factors that could lead to inflammation or irritation of the muscle.

In contrast, while the other muscles listed do play a role in thumb movement, they are either not primarily responsible for abduction or extension of the thumb, which is why they are less likely to be the source of the pain in this specific scenario. Understanding the anatomy and function of these muscles is essential for identifying the cause of discomfort and guiding appropriate treatment options.