Massage & Bodywork

November/December 2010

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functional anatomy BY CHRISTY CAEL PRONATOR TERES Pronator Teres Pronator teres crosses the anterior forearm, connecting the lateral forearm and medial elbow. The proximal fibers join the bicipital aponeurosis near the elbow to form the medial and inferior borders of the cubital fossa. This area of caution is near the elbow crease and contains the cubital lymph nodes, radial and median nerves, and the brachial, radial, and ulnar arteries. The primary function of pronator teres is to rotate the forearm, turning the hand palm down (pronation). It also strongly assists biceps brachii, brachialis, and brachioradialis in flexing the elbow. Arm wrestling requires strong elbow flexion with forearm pronation and a well-developed pronator teres. Using a screwdriver, wrench, or other turning tools may lead to overuse injuries in this muscle. Pronator teres is vulnerable to acute PRONATOR TERES Actions • Pronates the forearm • Assists in flexing the elbow ⁄3 Innervation • Median nerve • C6-7 of lateral radius Attachments • Origin: Medial epicondyle of humerus and medial aspect of coronoid process of ulna • Insertion: Middle 1 and repetitive injury during overhead throwing and golf. Stress occurs as the muscle contracts to turn the forearm and lengthens to straighten the elbow. This phenomenon—simultaneous lengthening and shortening of pronator teres—stabilizes the elbow joint and positions the ball for release during the overhead throw. It also "rolls" the non-dominant wrist during the golf swing as the head of the club strikes the ball. The tension created in pronator teres can irritate the origin at the medial epicondyle of humerus. Medial epicondylitis is commonly called golfer's elbow. connect with your colleagues on massageprofessionals.com 85

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