Muscle
Anconeus
Assists elbow extension
High-yield
Assists triceps in extension and abducts the ulna in pronation; radial nerve.
Overview
A small triangular muscle on the posterolateral elbow that assists extension and stabilises the joint during pronation.
Reference facts
- Origin
- Lateral epicondyle of the humerus
- Insertion
- Olecranon and posterior surface of the proximal ulna
- Action
- Assists in extending the elbow; stabilises the elbow and abducts the ulna during pronation
- Innervation
- Radial nerve (C7, C8)
- Blood supply
- Deep brachial / recurrent interosseous arteries
Frequently asked questions
What does the anconeus do?
The anconeus assists in extending the elbow; stabilises the elbow and abducts the ulna during pronation.
What nerve innervates the anconeus?
The anconeus is innervated by the radial nerve (C7, C8).
Where does the anconeus attach?
The anconeus originates from the lateral epicondyle of the humerus and inserts on the olecranon and posterior surface of the proximal ulna.
What is the blood supply of the anconeus?
The anconeus is supplied by the deep brachial / recurrent interosseous arteries.