The brachioradialis is a superficial muscle on the radial side of the forearm. It arises from the lateral supracondylar ridge of the humerus and inserts near the styloid process of the radius. The radial nerve supplies it, and it flexes the elbow, especially when the forearm is in the neutral position.
| Origin | Proximal two thirds of the lateral supracondylar ridge of the humerus. |
|---|---|
| Insertion | Lateral surface of the distal radius, near the styloid process. |
| Innervation | Radial nerve (C5-C6). |
| Blood supply | Radial recurrent artery. |
| Action | Flexes the elbow, most effective in the mid-prone (thumb-up) position. |
3D model: BodyParts3D (CC BY 4.0), adult male reference anatomy. Highlighted structure shown with nearby bones for context.
The brachioradialis is unusual because it belongs to the posterior (extensor) compartment by nerve supply but lies in front of the elbow and flexes it. It forms the lateral border of the cubital fossa.
It develops from the extensor compartment of the forearm, so it keeps its radial nerve supply even though it acts as an elbow flexor.
The brachioradialis (supinator) reflex, which tests spinal segments C5-C6.
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