Skip to content

Coracobrachialis Anatomy: Origin, Insertion, Action

Coracobrachialis Anatomy

Coracobrachialis Muscle

Origin:  Lateral aspect of the apex of the coracoid process of the scapula
Insertion:  Medial aspect of the midshaft of the humerus
Actions: Flexion of the arm at the shoulder
Innervation: Musculocutaneous nerve (C5 C6 C7)
Blood Supply: Muscular branches from the brachial artery

For information about coracobrachialis muscle referred pain symptoms see:

Coracobrachialis Muscle: Arm, Shoulder And Hand Pain

Primary Actions of the Coracobrachialis

1.  Flexion of the arm at the shoulder

Agonists:

  • Deltoid (anterior part)
  • Biceps Brachii
  • Pectoralis Major (clavicular head)

  Antagonists:

  • Deltoid (posterior part)
  • Triceps Brachii (long head)
  • Latissimus Dorsi
  • Pectoralis Major (sternal head)
  • Teres Major

Advertisement




Secondary Actions of the Coracobrachialis:

1. Assists with adduction of the arm at the shoulder

  Agonists:

  • Latissimus Dorsi
  • Teres Major
  • Pectoralis Major
  • Triceps Brachii (long head)

  Antagonists:

  • Deltoid (middle part)
  • Supraspinatus

Coracobrachialis and teres minor assist with adduction of the arm at the shoulder when the arm is returning from the abducted position.

The coracobrachialis muscle contributes to pain in the shoulder, arm, elbow and hand.

Recommended Muscle Anatomy Books

An excellent book for those beginning the study of anatomy. Coloring helps memory retention.

For intermediary anatomy students learning skeletal and muscle structure.

For beginning and intermediary anatomy . Muscle overlays on the human body. Excellent visuals!