The superficial layer of the posterior forearm contains several key muscles that primarily function in extending the wrist and fingers. These muscles include:
- Brachioradialis: This muscle is located in the lateral aspect of the forearm. It helps in flexing the elbow, especially when the forearm is in a mid-pronated position.
- Extensor Carpi Radialis Longus: Situated next to the brachioradialis, this muscle extends and abducts the wrist.
- Extensor Carpi Radialis Brevis: This muscle also helps in extending and abducting the wrist but is shorter than its longus counterpart.
- Extensor Digitorum: This muscle is responsible for extending the fingers and the wrist. It splits into four tendons that insert into the distal phalanges of the fingers.
- Extensor Digiti Minimi: This muscle extends the little finger and is a small muscle that runs alongside the extensor digitorum.
- Extensor Carpi Ulnaris: This muscle extends and adducts the wrist and is located on the medial side of the forearm.
Understanding these muscles is important for assessing movement and function in the forearm and hand, especially in activities that involve gripping and lifting.