Muscle
Brachioradialis
Radial-supplied flexor on the outer forearm
High-yield
A radial nerve supply does not always mean extension. Brachioradialis flexes the elbow and helps return the forearm toward a neutral rotation.
Overview
This muscle runs from the lateral humerus to the distal radius. Although grouped with radial-supplied forearm muscles, it bends the elbow; it is especially useful with the forearm in a neutral, thumb-up position.
Reference facts
- Origin
- Proximal two-thirds of the lateral humeral supracondylar ridge
- Insertion
- Lateral distal radius near the base of its styloid process
- Action
- Bends the elbow and helps bring a rotated forearm toward neutral
- Innervation
- Radial nerve, predominantly C5–C6, with C7 contribution
- Blood supply
- Branches of the radial recurrent artery
Clinical correlation
The brachioradialis stretch reflex examines the radial nerve pathway and C5–C6 segments. Changes are interpreted alongside other reflexes, strength and sensation rather than used alone to locate a lesion.
Frequently asked questions
What does the brachioradialis do?
The brachioradialis bends the elbow and helps bring a rotated forearm toward neutral.
What nerve innervates the brachioradialis?
The brachioradialis is innervated by the radial nerve, predominantly C5–C6, with C7 contribution.
Where does the brachioradialis attach?
Origin: Proximal two-thirds of the lateral humeral supracondylar ridge. Insertion: Lateral distal radius near the base of its styloid process.
What is the blood supply of the brachioradialis?
Branches of the radial recurrent artery.