Index finger - Upper extremity - Regions of upper limb - e-Anatomy
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Index finger

Index

  • Latin synonym: Digitus secundus manus; Digitus II manus
  • Synonym: Second digit of hand; Digit 2 of hand
  • Related terms: Index finger [II]

Definition

The index finger, (also referred to as forefinger, pointer finger, trigger finger, digitus secundus, digitus II, and many other terms), is the first finger and the second digit of a human hand.

It is located between the first and third digits, between the thumb and the middle finger. It is usually the most dextrous and sensitive finger of the hand, though not the longest – it is shorter than the middle finger, and may be shorter or longer than the ring finger – see digit ratio.

For details refer to the description of digits of hand.

References

Text reviewed by Muhammad A. Javaid, MD, PhD © 2023 IMAIOS.

  • Drake, R.L., Vogl, A.W. and Mitchell, A.W.M. (2009). ‘Chapter 7: Upper Limb’ in Gray’s anatomy for Students. (2nd ed.) Philadelphia PA 19103-2899: Elsevier, pp. 751-774.

  • Dawson-Amoah, K. and Varacallo, M. Anatomy, Shoulder and Upper Limb, Hand Intrinsic Muscles. [Updated 2022 Jul 25]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539810/

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