Supinator muscle

Supinator muscle Definition

It is a broad, cylindrical-shaped muscle in the forearm that normally curves around the upper third of the radius. As the name suggests, the muscle causes supination, which describes movement at an ankle, foot, or a shoulder joint. Previously, “supinator longus” referred to the brachioradialis, a muscle of the forearm, and the term “supinator radii brevis” was given to this extensive muscle. The tricep extensor is an antagonist of this muscle. It is also found in cats and dogs.

Supinator muscle Origin and Insertion

The lateral supracondylar ridge of the humerus gives rise to the superficial layer while the inner muscle fiber originates from the posterior part of the ulna. The peripheral fibers are usually inserted into the lateral edge of the radial tuberosity and the oblique line of the radius.

Supinator muscle Location

The posterior/extensor compartment of the forearm comprises of several muscles, supinator being one of them.

Supinator muscle location

Supinator muscle Anatomy

The muscle is composed of two zones of fibers, the upper portion being only a tendon. It attaches to the radial collateral ligament and radial annular ligament. The external fibers of the profound layer develop into a sling-like fasciculus that curls dorsally around the neck of the radius above the tuberosity and attaches to the rear end of its medial surface. As discussed earlier, the superior plane is introduced into the dorsal and lateral surfaces of the body of the radius between the oblique line and head of the bone. The most superior part of the muscle is called arcade of Frohsr or supinator arch.

Supinator muscle Innervation/Nerve supply

The posterior interosseous nerve, situated in the forearm as a continuation of the deep branch of the radial nerve, innervates the muscle. In 70% of cases, the deep branches of the radial nerve traverse the belly of the muscle. However, in rest of the cases, it passes through the arcade of Frohse. Both deep and sensory superficial branches of the nerve lie close to the muscle.

Supinator muscle Blood supply

The muscle receives direct muscular branches from the radial artery as well as branches from the posterior interosseous, radial recurrent, recurrent interosseous, and middle collateral arteries.

Supinator muscle Action and Function

The primary role of the muscle is to supinate the upper arm, meaning turning the hand in such a position so that the palm points in the upward direction. In this way, the biceps brachii, simply called biceps, is able to perform movements. This is, however, possible due to its ability to rotate the radius. Coordination of these two groups of muscle aids in the rotation of the forearm and flexing of the elbow. In case there is some form of resistance, the muscle in the forearm actively undertakes the heavy load.

Supinator muscle Damage

The deep branch of the radial nerve carries a high risk of entrapment and compression since it follows a narrow course between the two layers of the muscle. This may result in supinator entrapment syndrome or radial tunnel syndrome. It is most often confused with compression of the C8 nerve root in the neck. Impingement of the nerve is most likely due to repetitive movement or injury. This condition is most detrimental to the extensor muscles and abductor pollicis longus served by the nerve as these are prone to selective paralysis. Sufferers undergo severe pain in the forearm. Palpation on the dorsal surface of the proximal forearm as a part of manual muscle testing can help in locating the problem. An electromyography (EMG) test is an appropriate procedure for recording and evaluating the electrical activity produced by the damaged muscle. Administration of painkillers and corticosteroid injections are some of the curative options for reducing the discomfort. The inflamed nerve can also be decompressed with the help of surgery. Tennis elbow rehab exercises can add immense strength to the forearm muscle. Nevertheless, overstretching of the muscle may lead to the formation of knots, causing intense pain. Focus massage on the trigger points may help in releasing these small knots. The arcade of Frohse is the most preferred site for muscle hypertrophy and lesions. Sudden degeneration of the muscle can result in atrophy. Some individuals may develop edema in the posterior aspect of the muscle, which is clearly visible on an MRI scan. Vigorous workouts can often strain the muscle and tear it. This is most commonly observed in the middle age population.

Supinator muscle Pictures

image of Supinator muscle

 

Picture of Supinator muscle

References

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Supinator_muscle

http://www.wheelessonline.com/ortho/supinator

http://www.teachpe.com/anatomy/muscles/supinator.php

Last updated on February 4th, 2018 at 12:18 pm

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