Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/1451559
L i s te n to T h e A B M P Po d c a s t a t a b m p.co m /p o d c a s t s o r w h e reve r yo u a cce s s yo u r favo r i te p o d c a s t s 67 and the brachioradialis lose their mechanical advantage in this position. Both the brachialis and the biceps brachii are rapid flexors; that is, their position on the arm generates quick movement through a large range of motion. The forces produced by the brachialis and the biceps brachii are distributed between the ulna and the radius, maximizing joint function and minimizing injury. Christy Cael is a licensed massage therapist and certified strength and conditioning specialist. Her private practice focuses on injury treatment, biomechanical analysis, craniosacral therapy, and massage for clients with neurological issues. She is the author of Functional Anatomy: Musculoskeletal Anatomy, Kinesiology, and Palpation for Manual Therapists (New York: Jones & Bartlett Learning, 2010; jblearning.com). Contact her at christy_cael@hotmail.com. TAKEAWAY: The brachialis works primarily with the biceps brachii and the brachioradialis to flex the elbow; it is unique in that it is a pure elbow flexor and maintains its leverage regardless of forearm position. PALPATING THE BRACHIALIS Positioning: client supine with forearm pronated 1. Passively flex the elbow to slack tissue. 2. On the anterior upper arm, find the medial and lateral borders of the elbow flexors in a pincer grasp. 3. Gently slide the fingers distally toward the elbow crease, stopping a few inches above. 4. Have the client gently resist elbow flexion to ensure proper location. PASSIVE STRETCHING OF THE BRACHIALIS Positioning: client supine with the elbow flexed and forearm supinated 1. Stand at the client's side and support the wrist and elbow. 2. As the client remains relaxed, straighten the elbow into full extension. 3. The end-feel will be springy or bouncy if limited by muscle tension in the elbow flexors and firm or hard if limited by the humeroulnar joint structures. 4. Use the thumb of your proximal hand to locate and assess tension and soft-tissue qualities of the brachialis muscle belly and tendon throughout the range of motion.