Have you ever wondered how people such as tennis players, table tennis players, painters or card magicians could maintain such control and dexterity over their hands that enables them to excel at these activities? The simple answer is the flexor carpi radialis.
Although you may not be familiar with this muscle because it is not as popular as some of the other muscles in the body, we can assure you that it is a significant muscle in the body, especially in the upper arm.
In this article, we will be discussing at length the anatomy of the flexor carpi radialis, the various functions it performs in the body and how to prevent injury to this muscle.
Anatomy of Flexor Carpi Radialis
Flexor carpi radialis is a muscle that is located on the bottom side of the wrist, forearm and the hand. It is often described as a long and thin muscle.
This muscle extends from the bottom of the humerus to the base of the second finger.
The flexor carpi radialis is also described as a superficial muscle. This means that it is located just below the skin and is not covered by other structures in the body.
The nerve supply of the flexor carpi radialis is from the median nerve while the blood supply is from the radial artery. The supply of blood to this muscle allows it to receive nutrients and oxygen from the body which enables it to perform its functions.
Flexor Carpi Radialis: Functions
Flexor carpi radialis performs the following essential functions:
- Flexion of the wrist: Flexion of the wrist is merely the act of bending the hand forward at the wrist. That simple movement enables you to perform a lot of important tasks such as writing or playing sports like tennis.
- The abduction of the wrist: This is the act of bending the wrist sideways. This means that when you wave to someone, you are making use of your flexor carpi radialis.
Flexor Carpi Injury: Signs And Symptoms
It is impossible to go an entire day without making use of your flexor carpi radialis. This implies that any injury to this muscle could be destabilizing. Here are the signs and symptoms that serve as a pointer to a fracture of the flexor carpi radialis:
- Pain in the center of your wrist that extends towards the side of your thumb.
- Sharp pain whenever you bend or straighten your wrist.
- Pain from grabbing objects.
- A pain that extends from your wrists into your forearm.
Treatment for Flexor Carpi Radialis Injury
- Medical History and Physical Examination: In the medical history, the Doctor will ask you some questions regarding the pain you have been feeling and will proceed to examine you afterward.
- Investigation: The Doctor may request for an X-ray or MRI to confirm his diagnosis.
- Treatment: The Doctor will place you on drugs to relieve the pain you might be feeling. Treatment will depend on the severity of the injury and the type of health care provider you see. Some will attempt for natural means of healing while others may look for routes that involve drugs and surgery.
Prevention of Flexor Carpi Injury
The flexor carpi radialis muscle can be strengthened by performing exercises that resist flexion of the wrist. You can make use of a wrist roller or a dumbbell to do tasks. It is suggested that you go and see a healthcare provider first. The reason is that you need to make sure that you are doing the right stuff at the right time and the correct amounts.
Finding The Best Healthcare Providers
9INE POINT Health will connect you with a professional healthcare provider in your area to help you treat or manage any problems with your Flexor Carpi Radialis muscle. With 9INE POINT Health you can find health care providers local to you based on the type of provider and skill set. If you want a massage therapist that also is certified in Graston, for example, 9INE POINT Health will show you the best 9INE POINT Numbers to match.
KHO Health was acquired by was acquire by 9INE POINT in the summer of 2019 and is now referred to as 9INE POINT Health.
9INE POINT Health was created by 9INE POINT in '19 as a means to provide athlete-driven resources to "Protect Athletes' Minds, Body and Belly". As well as be a platform for healthcare providers and other specialists to display their knowledge.
