MuscleForearm — posterior (lateral)
Extensor carpi radialis longus
Latin: M. extensor carpi radialis longus
Location: Forearm
View the extensor carpi radialis longus in 3DOrigin
Distal lateral supracondylar ridge of the humerus.
Insertion
Base of the second metacarpal (dorsal surface).
Action
Extends and abducts (radially-deviates) the wrist — the extensor partner of FCR; stabilises the fist for power grip.
Nerve supply
Radial nerve (C6–C7).
Blood supply
Radial artery.
Clinical relevance
Its tenosynovitis at the wrist's radial side — intersection syndrome — crosses the thumb abductors where rowers feel crepitus.
Educational anatomy reference, not medical advice. About this content.