MuscleForearm — posterior

Extensor carpi ulnaris

Latin: M. extensor carpi ulnaris

Location: Forearm

View the extensor carpi ulnaris in 3D

Origin

Lateral epicondyle and posterior border of the ulna.

Insertion

Base of the fifth metacarpal.

Action

Extends and adducts (ulnar-deviates) the wrist — the tennis topspin wrist snap.

Nerve supply

Posterior interosseous nerve (C7–C8).

Blood supply

Posterior interosseous artery.

Clinical relevance

ECU tenosynovitis and subluxation snap over the ulnar styloid in racquet athletes; its sheath stabilises the distal radio-ulnar joint.

Educational anatomy reference, not medical advice. About this content.