What is tricep brachii muscle?

The triceps brachii is a large, three-headed muscle on the posterior side of the upper arm. It's the primary muscle responsible for extension of the elbow joint, effectively straightening the arm.

• Anatomy: As the name suggests, the <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/triceps%20brachii%20muscle%20anatomy">triceps brachii muscle anatomy</a> has three heads: the long head, the lateral head, and the medial head. Each head originates from a different location:

  • Long Head: Arises from the infraglenoid tubercle of the scapula. This head crosses both the shoulder and elbow joints.
  • Lateral Head: Originates from the humerus, superior and lateral to the radial groove.
  • Medial Head: Originates from the humerus, inferior and medial to the radial groove, and also from the intermuscular septa.

• Insertion: All three heads converge and insert onto the olecranon process of the ulna.

• Function: The primary function of the <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/triceps%20brachii%20muscle%20function">triceps brachii muscle function</a> is elbow extension. The long head also assists in shoulder adduction and extension due to its origin on the scapula. The medial head is considered the workhorse of the triceps, being active in all elbow extensions, while the lateral head is primarily active during higher force movements.

• Innervation: The triceps brachii is innervated by the radial nerve.

• Blood Supply: The muscle receives blood supply from the brachial artery, profunda brachii artery, and collateral branches.

• Clinical Significance: Triceps injuries are less common than biceps injuries. However, <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/triceps%20brachii%20muscle%20injury">triceps brachii muscle injury</a> can occur due to direct trauma, overuse, or forceful contractions. Weakness in elbow extension is a common symptom.

• Exercises: Various exercises target the triceps, including close-grip bench presses, triceps pushdowns, overhead extensions, and skullcrushers. Strengthening the <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/triceps%20brachii%20muscle%20exercises">triceps brachii muscle exercises</a> can improve upper body strength and stability.