Superficial Extensor Compartment of the Forearm

Description

Superficial Extensor Compartment of the Forearm

Superficial dorsal compartment

Alternative Names

• Superficial Posterior Compartment of the Forearm
• Superficial Dorsal Compartment of the Forearm
• Superficial Extensor Muscle Group (Forearm)
• Superficial Extensor Group of the Forearm
• Posterior Forearm Compartment (Superficial Layer)
• Dorsal Forearm Compartment (Superficial Layer)

General

• Located in the posterior forearm, forms the superficial layer of the extensor compartment
• Contains seven muscles
• Four of them share a tendinous origin at the common extensor tendon
• Superficial compartment of the Posterior Compartment of the Forearm

Muscles

• Extensor Digitorum
• Extensor Digiti Minimi
• Extensor Carpi Ulnaris
• Anconeus
• Brachioradialis
• Extensor Carpi Radialis Longus
• Extensor Carpi Radialis Brevis

Function

• Wrist extension (ECRL, ECRB, ECU)
• Finger extension (extensor digitorum, extensor digiti minimi)
• Assists with radial and ulnar deviation
• Contributes to grip stabilization by maintaining wrist extension during flexion
• Brachioradialis assists with elbow flexion in neutral position

Innervation

• Primarily by the radial nerve
  • Posterior Interosseous Nerve

Vascular Supply

• Radial artery (lateral forearm structures)
• Posterior interosseous artery (branch of ulnar artery via common interosseous)

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Clinical Significance

• Forearm Pain Main
• Acute Compartment Syndrome
• Lateral Epicondylitis
• Posterior Interosseous Nerve Syndrome
• Intersection Syndrome

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See Also

• Forearm Pain Main
• Forearm Anatomy Main
• Physical Exam Wrist

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