Brachioradialis muscle

Brachioradialis is a muscle of the forearm that flexes the forearm at the elbow. It is also capable of pronation and supination of the forearm, depending on the position of the forearm. It is situated in the lateral compartment of the forearm.

Anatomy

The brachioradialis originates from the lateral supracondylar ridge of the humerus, just above the lateral epicondyle. It inserts on the distal radius, at the styloid process. The muscle is innervated by the radial nerve, specifically the C5-C6 spinal nerves. Its blood supply comes from the radial artery.

Function

The primary function of the brachioradialis is the flexion of the forearm at the elbow joint, especially when the forearm is in midpronation/supination. This makes it an important muscle for movements requiring a strong grip or rapid flexion of the elbow. Additionally, depending on the position of the forearm, it can aid in pronation and supination. When the forearm is pronated, the brachioradialis can help to supinate it and vice versa.

Clinical Significance

Injury to the brachioradialis can result from overuse, direct trauma, or as part of a more complex injury to the radial nerve. Symptoms may include pain, weakness in forearm flexion, and difficulty in manipulating objects. Diagnosis is typically through physical examination and may be confirmed with imaging studies such as MRI or ultrasound. Treatment often involves rest, physical therapy, and in severe cases, surgery.

Exercise and Rehabilitation

Strengthening and rehabilitation exercises for the brachioradialis include wrist curls, reverse wrist curls, and hammer curls. These exercises can help in the recovery from injury and also in improving the strength and flexibility of the muscle.

See Also

• Forearm
• Elbow joint
• Radial nerve
• Supination and Pronation