Extensor digitorum communis

Extensor Digitorum Muscle

Extensor Digitorum Communis is sometimes simply referred to as Extensor Digitorum. It is one of the extensor muscles of the wrist, found in the forearm.

  • Origin – Lateral epicondyle of the humerus.
  • Insertion – Splits into 4 tendons which insert to the bases of the 2nd and 3rd Phalanges of the four fingers. 
  • Actions – Extension of the wrist.
    Extension of the fingers.
  • Innervation – Posterior interosseous nerve. 
  • Daily uses – Pulling the hand back and straightening the fingers to wave. 
  • Example strengthening exercises – Wrist extension using a dumbbell. 
  • Example stretches – Wrist extensor stretch. 
  • Related injuries – Tennis elbow. 
  • Related muscles – Extensor carpi ulnaris. Extensor carpi radialis brevis. Extensor carpi radialis longus. Extensor pollicis longus.
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