Which muscle is the primary elbow extensor?

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Study for the Muscle Actions and Functions – Anatomy and Movement Test. Equip yourself with multiple choice questions, each with detailed explanations and hints. Prepare confidently for your exam!

Multiple Choice

Which muscle is the primary elbow extensor?

Explanation:
Elbow extension is produced mainly by the triceps brachii, which crosses the elbow and inserts on the olecranon of the ulna. When the triceps contracts, it straightens the forearm, making it the primary mover for extending the elbow. The anconeus can help stabilize the elbow and assist with extension, especially at the end of the range or under load, but it’s not the main extensor. The brachialis lies on the front of the arm and flexes the elbow, while the biceps brachii also flexes the elbow (and supinates the forearm), opposing extension. So the triceps brachii is the key elbow extensor.

Elbow extension is produced mainly by the triceps brachii, which crosses the elbow and inserts on the olecranon of the ulna. When the triceps contracts, it straightens the forearm, making it the primary mover for extending the elbow. The anconeus can help stabilize the elbow and assist with extension, especially at the end of the range or under load, but it’s not the main extensor. The brachialis lies on the front of the arm and flexes the elbow, while the biceps brachii also flexes the elbow (and supinates the forearm), opposing extension. So the triceps brachii is the key elbow extensor.

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