Dear Physiotherapist, did you know the thumb has evolved over time?

The thumb’s evolution came about by changes in functionality demands.

Excavation has revealed earlier Hominidae fossils had much shorter thumbs relative to the other fingers of the hand.  The shorter thumbs can be attributed to the functional demands of the time they lived in.  Primate species required thumbs with articular surfaces shaped to allow for supporting their upper limbs on the ground to ambulate on all-fours, with longer fingers to grasp tree branches to swing on and grasp food to eat…no utensils to eat with at that point in time.

Longer fingers and the articular surfaces of the thumb had to change with the increase in functional demands.  Humans had to make tools out of rock to survive…a huge increase in stresses placed on their hands.  These tools further allowed them to mould and shape stones to become crafty with; thumbs gripping around handles and strike tremendous blows on stones.  Survival often necessitates human change and attests to our adaptability as a specie.

The evolution did not stop there, the later hominid fossils revealed a flatter first carpometacarpal joint and larger distal phalanges, bringing us ever closer to how our thumbs are in modern times.  Opposable thumbs!

By sharing how the human thumb has evolved structurally my intension is for you to take care of Your amasing tools.  Your thumbs, one on the left and one on the right, are blessings.  Your work places high demands on your hands and thumbs but work with them!  Even work very hard with your tools but become aware of what techniques are causing discomfort and pain.

Wishing you and your hands a joyous and pain free life!

Much love.

Monique Keller

Chairperson – The Helping Hand Amplified Team