New Study: Anconeus Muscle's Role in Tennis Elbow Revealed
Tennis elbow, a frequent cause of elbow pain, often originates from excessive use of the forearm extensor muscles. Now, a new study indicates that the anconeus muscle, though less commonly involved, can also contribute to this condition.
The anconeus muscle, a small triangular muscle connecting the ulna to the humerus, primarily extends the elbow and rotates the forearm. Its absence could hinder full arm extension. Many anatomists consider it an extension of the triceps brachii muscle.
Injury or strain to this muscle can result in tennis elbow, a painful condition that makes bending the elbow and carrying weight with a bent elbow challenging. It also prevents the ulna and humerus from pinching the elbow joint capsule during arm flexion and release. However, it's crucial to note that the forearm extensor muscles, particularly the extensor carpi radialis brevis, are more commonly associated with tennis elbow. Overuse of these muscles leads to inflammation at the outside of the elbow, causing the characteristic pain.
While the forearm extensor muscles are primarily responsible for tennis elbow, the anconeus muscle can also play a role. Understanding this muscle's function can aid in diagnosing and treating elbow pain more effectively.
