A Fascinating Sign of Human Evolution Hiding in Your Wrist
The human body is an incredible masterpiece of evolution—one that most of us rarely stop to appreciate. When you really think about it, we’ve come a long way from our primate ancestors, evolving into intelligent beings capable of building civilizations, creating advanced technology, and even exploring outer space.
Yet, despite all these advancements, our bodies haven’t changed much in tens of thousands of years. While our environment has transformed dramatically, we still carry many traits inherited from our ancient ancestors. Some of these traits are slowly disappearing, though, as evolution quietly continues its work over countless generations.
One fascinating example of this gradual change lies in a tiny, often overlooked part of the human body: a tendon in your wrist that may provide a glimpse into the future of human evolution.
A Muscle From Our Past
Deep within your forearm, there’s a muscle called the palmaris longus. This muscle was once crucial for animals that relied heavily on their arms for movement, such as lemurs and monkeys. It helped them grip and swing through trees with ease, playing a vital role in their survival.
However, as some primates transitioned from tree-dwelling to ground-based movement, they gradually lost the need for this muscle. For example, gorillas, which walk on all fours rather than swinging from branches, have largely phased it out.
Interestingly, humans are following the same evolutionary path. While most people still have the palmaris longus, studies suggest that about 10-15% of the population no longer does. Over time, this number may continue to grow as evolution refines the human form for modern life.
Do You Still Have It? Try This Simple Test!
Curious to know if you still have this ancestral tendon? You can find out with a quick and easy test:
- Lay your forearm on a flat surface with your palm facing upward.
- Touch your pinky finger to your thumb.
- Slightly lift your hand off the surface while keeping your fingers together.
Look closely at your wrist. If you see a visible tendon running down the middle, you still have the palmaris longus! If you don’t, congratulations—you’re among the small percentage of humans who have already evolved past the need for it.
What Does This Mean for the Future?
While the absence of this tendon doesn’t impact daily life, it serves as a subtle reminder that evolution is still shaping us, even if we don’t always notice it. Over time, as our lifestyles continue to change, certain physical traits may become obsolete—just like the palmaris longus is slowly fading away.
So, did you find your tendon? Share this article with your friends and family to see if they have theirs, too! It’s a fun way to explore a tiny but fascinating piece of human evolution.