Table F: Forearm joints

Muscle Name Origin Insertion Nerve Action

Supinator Lateral epicondyle Lateral, posterior, Radial Forearm
of humerus and anterior supination
surfaces of
Radial collateral proximal 1/3 of
and annular radius
ligament

Ulna
Pronator Teres First head= medial Lateral surface of Median Pronates forearm
epicondyle of radius
humerus Weakly flexes
elbow
Second head=
coronoid process
of ulna
Pronator Distal ulna Distal anterior Median Pronates forearm
Quadratus radius
Clinical applications

 Subluxation and Dislocation of Radial Head

o Preschool children, particularly girls, are vulnerable to transient subluxation (incomplete
dislocation) of the head of the radius (also called “nursemaid’s elbow” and “pulled
elbow”). The history of these dislocations is typical. The child is suddenly lifted (jerked)
by the upper limb while the forearm is pronated (e.g., lifting a child) (Fig. B6.39A). The
child may cry out, refuse to use the limb, and protect their limb by holding it with the
elbow flexed and the forearm pronated.
o Radial head moves out from the annular ligament
 Wrist fractures and dislocations
o Fracture of the distal end of the radius (Colles fracture), the most common fracture in
people >50 years of age and occurs more frequently in women because their bones are
more commonly weakened by osteoporosis. A complete transverse fracture of the distal
2 cm of the radius, called a Colles fracture, is the most common fracture of the forearm.
o The distal fragment end is usually displaced dorsally
o Fracture results from forced extension of the hand, usually as the result of trying to
break a fall
o Often the ulnar styloid process is avulsed (broken off)