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Extensor Carpi Ulnaris Origin, Insertion, Action, Innervation

Extensor Carpi Ulnaris Anatomy

Extensor Carpi Ulnaris

Origin:  Lateral epicondyle of humerus via the common extensor tendon
Insertion:  Tubercles on the medial side of the base of the fifth metacarpal
Actions: Extension of the wrist
Innervation: Radial nerve (C6 C7 C8)
Blood Supply: Posterior interosseous artery from the ulnar artery

Primary Actions of the Extensor Carpi Ulnaris

1.  Extension of the wrist

  Agonists

  • Extensor carpi radialis longus
  • Extensor carpi brevis

  Antagonists:

  • Flexor Carpi Radialis Longus
  • Flexor Carpi Ulnaris
  • Palmaris Longus

2. Ulnar deviation of the wrist

  Agonists: 

  • Flexor Carpi Ulnaris

  Antagonists:

  • Extensor Carpi Radialis Longus
  • Extensor Carpi Radialis Brevis
  • Flexor Carpi Radialis

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