What are the muscles that separate the fingers called?

The muscles that separate the fingers are called abductors. These muscles are responsible for the movement that spreads the fingers apart, moving them away from the midline of the hand. This action is essential for various functions, including grasping and manipulating objects, as it increases the range of motion and dexterity of the fingers.

In the hand, the most notable abductor muscles are the abductor digiti minimi, which acts on the little finger, and the abductor pollicis brevis, which influences the movement of the thumb. The role of abductor muscles is crucial in providing the necessary coordination and control during activities that require finger spreading.

Understanding the function of these muscles is important for a manicurist, as it relates to performing tasks such as nail care and applying nail enhancements, where proper finger separation can help achieve precise results.