What is the large cushion area at the base of the thumb called?

The large cushion area at the base of the thumb is known as the thenar eminence. This anatomical structure is made up of several muscle groups that facilitate the fine motor movements of the thumb, providing both strength and dexterity. The thenar eminence plays a crucial role in grasp, pinch, and opposition movements, which are essential for various daily tasks.

In contrast, the hypothenar eminence refers to the fleshy area at the base of the little finger, while the palmar region encompasses the entire palm of the hand. The dorsal aspect refers to the back of the hand. Therefore, recognizing the specific terminology associated with each of these anatomical areas is key for any latent print examiner, as understanding hand anatomy can aid in the analysis and comparison of fingerprint impressions.