Palpation of the Brachialis Muscle
The biceps brachii, discussed previously, acts on both the elbow and shoulder joints, making it a crucial point to evaluate when intervening in the shoulder and elbow. In clinical practice, when the local muscles of the shoulder joint become dysfunctional, the long head of the biceps brachii often compensates, which frequently leads to pain over time. Conversely, if the stability of the elbow joint decreases, compensation by the biceps brachii will also occur.
So, what muscle acts on the stability of the elbow joint?
That is the subject of this article: the "brachialis muscle."
1. Clinical Significance of Palpation
What you need to know about the brachialis is its insertion point.
In basic kinesiology, it is described as:
[Origin] Anterior surface of the humerus
[Insertion] Ulnar tuberosity
(Source: visible body 2021)
However, looking more closely, a portion of the brachialis attaches to the anterior joint capsule. Because of this feature, the brachialis can function as an articular muscle for the elbow joint, contributing to the stability of the anterior aspect of the elbow joint. Knowing just this helps you understand the importance of evaluating whether the function of the brachialis is working properly.
2. Characteristics
Now, let's organize how the brachialis specifically functions.
The deep fiber group of the brachialis attaches directly to the anterior joint capsule of the elbow.
This allows it to pull out the joint capsule that would otherwise slacken during elbow flexion, enabling stable elbow flexion movement.
(Source: ©︎International Association of Integrated Rehabilitation)
Therefore, it is important to carefully perform the following in clinical practice:
・Palpation (especially the intermuscular space with the triceps brachii)
・MMT for elbow flexion with the forearm pronated
3. Actual Palpation Method
Now, let's actually palpate it.
① Check the area slightly anterior to the center when viewing the upper arm from the lateral side
② Confirm contraction with elbow flexion while the forearm is pronated
③ While palpating, move your fingers toward the humerus to also confirm the intermuscular space with the triceps brachii
4. Summary
By thoroughly checking the origin and insertion, you can understand what role that muscle plays. This clarifies the significance of palpation in clinical practice. Let's learn palpation and anatomy together.
Thank you for reading to the end. Thank you for reading to the end.
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Postscript:
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In addition to in-person events, we also offer "Clinical Useful Columns" and "Web Seminars that you can study anytime, anywhere," so if you are interested in studying, please take a look at our website♪
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