The common extensor tendon is a
tendon
A tendon or sinew is a tough, high-tensile-strength band of dense fibrous connective tissue that connects muscle to bone. It is able to transmit the mechanical forces of muscle contraction to the skeletal system without sacrificing its ability ...
that attaches to the
lateral epicondyle of the
humerus
The humerus (; ) is a long bone in the arm that runs from the shoulder to the elbow. It connects the scapula and the two bones of the lower arm, the radius and ulna, and consists of three sections. The humeral upper extremity consists of a roun ...
.
Structure
The common extensor tendon serves as the upper attachment (in part) for the superficial muscles that are located on the posterior aspect of the
forearm
The forearm is the region of the upper limb between the elbow and the wrist. The term forearm is used in anatomy to distinguish it from the arm, a word which is most often used to describe the entire appendage of the upper limb, but which in ...
:
*
Extensor carpi radialis brevis
*
Extensor digitorum
*
Extensor digiti minimi
*
Extensor carpi ulnaris
The tendon of extensor carpi radialis brevis is usually the most major tendon to which the other tendons merge.
[
]
Function
The common extensor tendon is the major attachment point for extensor muscles of the forearm. This enables finger extension and aids in forearm supination.
Clinical significance
Lateral elbow pain can be caused by various pathologies
Pathology is the study of the causes and effects of disease or injury. The word ''pathology'' also refers to the study of disease in general, incorporating a wide range of biology research fields and medical practices. However, when used in t ...
of the common extensor tendon. Overuse injuries
A repetitive strain injury (RSI) is an injury to part of the musculoskeletal or nervous system caused by repetitive use, vibrations, compression or long periods in a fixed position. Other common names include repetitive stress disorders, cumula ...
can lead to inflammation
Inflammation (from la, wikt:en:inflammatio#Latin, inflammatio) is part of the complex biological response of body tissues to harmful stimuli, such as pathogens, damaged cells, or Irritation, irritants, and is a protective response involving im ...
. Tennis elbow
Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis or enthesopathy of the extensor carpi radialis origin, is a condition in which the outer part of the elbow becomes painful and tender. The pain may also extend into the back of the forearm. Onset ...
is a common issue with the common extensor tendon.
See also
* Common flexor tendon
* Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
References
Tendons
Upper limb anatomy
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