Muscle
Anconeus
Small helper at the back of the elbow
High-yield
Elbow extension is mainly a triceps action, with help from anconeus. Both receive radial nerve supply.
Overview
Anconeus bridges the outer humeral epicondyle and proximal ulna. It assists triceps when the elbow straightens and contributes to stability around the joint.
Reference facts
- Origin
- Lateral epicondyle of the distal humerus
- Insertion
- Lateral olecranon and nearby posterior surface of the upper ulna
- Action
- Assists elbow extension and joint stabilization
- Innervation
- Radial nerve, mainly C7–C8; some descriptions include T1
- Blood supply
- Interosseous recurrent and collateral branches around the elbow, including branches of the deep brachial artery
Clinical correlation
Its position and arterial connections allow surgeons to use anconeus tissue to cover selected soft-tissue defects near the elbow. This is one practical reason its vascular anatomy matters.
Frequently asked questions
What does the anconeus do?
The anconeus assists elbow extension and joint stabilization.
What nerve innervates the anconeus?
Radial nerve, mainly C7–C8; some descriptions include T1.
Where does the anconeus attach?
Origin: Lateral epicondyle of the distal humerus. Insertion: Lateral olecranon and nearby posterior surface of the upper ulna.
What is the blood supply of the anconeus?
The anconeus is supplied by the interosseous recurrent and collateral branches around the elbow, including branches of the deep brachial artery.