Extremities Exam 2026 – Comprehensive Muscles Practice Guide to Master Your Exam!

The primary job of the anconeus is to extend the elbow. This small muscle sits on the posterior elbow, attaching from the lateral epicondyle of the humerus to the olecranon and proximal ulna, and when it contracts it helps straighten the forearm, working with the larger triceps to extend the elbow and stabilize the joint, especially as it approaches full extension.

Abducting the ulna during pronation is a secondary, supportive role that can help maintain alignment of the forearm bones during rotation, but it is not the main action. Flexing the forearm is performed by flexor muscles like the brachialis and biceps, not by the anconeus. Supinating the forearm is done by the supinator and biceps, not by the anconeus.