Flexor carpi radialis

The flexor carpi radialis (Latin: musculus flexor carpi radialis) is a long fusiform-shaped superficial muscle of the upper limb that extends between the humerus and the metacarpal bones. It is one of the wrist flexors and belongs to the anterior muscles of the forearm. It lies in the first (superficial) layer of the anterior forearm compartment.

Origin

The flexor carpi radialis originates from the medial epicondyle of the humerus and further goes obliquely downward to the radial side of the forearm.

Insertion

The flexor carpi radialis inserts at the bases of the second and third metacarpal bones.

Action

The flexor carpi radialis muscle provides the flexion and abduction of the wrist at the wrist joint.

Innervation

The flexor carpi radialis is innervated by the median nerve (C6, C7) - a branch of the brachial plexus.

Blood supply

The flexor carpi radialis muscle receives arterial blood supply from the anterior or posterior ulnar recurrent arteries that arise from the ulnar artery. Besides the mentioned arteries, this muscle is also supplied by the branches of the radial artery. The radial artery branches off the brachial artery.