AnatoMemory

Muscle

Extensor carpi radialis longus

Extends and abducts the wrist

Upper limbMuscular system

High-yield

Radial nerve (not the deep branch); extends and abducts the wrist.

Overview

A superficial extensor that extends and radially deviates the wrist, supplied by the radial nerve proper before it divides.

Reference facts

Origin
Lateral supracondylar ridge of the humerus
Insertion
Base of the 2nd metacarpal
Action
Extends and abducts (radially deviates) the wrist
Innervation
Radial nerve (C6, C7)
Blood supply
Radial artery

Frequently asked questions

What does the extensor carpi radialis longus do?

The extensor carpi radialis longus extends and abducts (radially deviates) the wrist.

What nerve innervates the extensor carpi radialis longus?

The extensor carpi radialis longus is innervated by the radial nerve (C6, C7).

Where does the extensor carpi radialis longus attach?

The extensor carpi radialis longus originates from the lateral supracondylar ridge of the humerus and inserts on the base of the 2nd metacarpal.

What is the blood supply of the extensor carpi radialis longus?

The extensor carpi radialis longus is supplied by the radial artery.