Which muscle combination is commonly targeted by FES for hand function?

• A. Flexor digitorum superficialis + EPB
• B. Extensor digitorum + EPL
• C. Flexor digitorum profundus + EIP
• D. FDS + FPL

Answer: (A)

When NMES is used to restore hand function, the goal is to create a usable grasp by coordinating finger closure with a thumb position that can meet the curled fingers. The superficial flexor of the fingers (FDS) provides the necessary finger flexion to bring the fingers toward the palm, forming a grip. Pairing that with a thumb muscle that can position the thumb to meet the curled fingers (in this case, extensor pollicis brevis) helps place the thumb into a position that can contact and stabilize the grasp.

So, flexor digitorum superficialis combined with extensor pollicis brevis is a common pairing because it supports a functional grip pattern by closing the fingers while aligning the thumb for effective contact. The other combinations either emphasize extension or mismatched thumb movement, which are less conducive to forming a functional grasp.