List of extensors of the human body

In human anatomy, extensor muscles are responsible for the straightening movement of a joint, essentially opposing the action of flexor muscles. Typically, extensor muscles are situated on the posterior of the limb and are responsible for extending or opening angles between bones or body parts. This article delves into an extensive list of such extensor muscles, coupled with a detailed glossary outlining their anatomical features, functions, and associated structures.

Gray's anatomy hand muscles

Extensor carpi radialis longus

Gray's anatomy foot muscles

Upper Limb Extensors

• Extensor carpi radialis longus - Extends and abducts the wrist.
• Extensor carpi radialis brevis - Aids in wrist extension and abduction.
• Extensor carpi ulnaris - Participates in the extension and adduction of the wrist.
• Extensor digitorum - Responsible for extending the medial four digits of the hand.
• Extensor pollicis longus and Extensor pollicis brevis - Both muscles extend the thumb.

Lower Limb Extensors

• Extensor digitorum longus - A muscle of the anterior leg responsible for extending the toes.
• Extensor hallucis longus - Helps in extending the big toe.

Glossary of Extensor Muscles

Extensor carpi radialis longus:

• Origin: Lateral supracondylar ridge of the humerus
• Insertion: Base of the second metacarpal
• Function: Provides extension and abduction at the wrist joint.

Extensor carpi radialis brevis:

• Origin: Lateral epicondyle of the humerus
• Insertion: Base of the third metacarpal
• Function: Assists in wrist extension and abduction.

Extensor carpi ulnaris:

• Origin: Lateral epicondyle of the humerus and posterior border of the ulna
• Insertion: Base of the fifth metacarpal
• Function: Facilitates wrist extension and adduction.

Extensor digitorum:

• Origin: Lateral epicondyle of the humerus
• Insertion: Extensor expansions of medial four digits
• Function: Enables extension of the second to fifth digits.

Extensor pollicis longus:

• Origin: Middle third of the ulna and interosseous membrane
• Insertion: Base of the distal phalanx of the thumb
• Function: Extends the thumb.

Extensor pollicis brevis:

• Origin: Distal part of the radius and interosseous membrane
• Insertion: Base of the proximal phalanx of the thumb
• Function: Assists in thumb extension.

Extensor digitorum longus:

• Origin: Lateral condyle of the tibia, proximal 3/4 of the fibula, and interosseous membrane
• Insertion: Middle and distal phalanges of the lateral four toes
• Function: Extends toes and dorsiflexes the foot.

Extensor hallucis longus:

• Origin: Middle half of the fibula and interosseous membrane
• Insertion: Base of the distal phalanx of the big toe
• Function: Responsible for extending the big toe and dorsiflexing the foot.

Importance of Extensor Muscles

Extensor muscles are fundamental for various movements, from grasping objects with our hands to walking or running. These muscles, found predominantly on the posterior aspect of our limbs, allow for straightening actions vital for our mobility and dexterity. Understanding the anatomy and function of these muscles is crucial for medical professionals, physiotherapists, and anyone studying human movement or biomechanics.

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