Muscle Breakdown: Pronator Teres
Table of Contents
What Is The Pronator Teres
Pronator Teres is a muscle found in your forearms that does exactly what it says in its name- pronation of the forearm. Keep reading to learn about the Pronator Teres including its anatomy, function and what different symptoms can mean.
The Pronator Teres is considered to be a fusiform muscle. Fusiform muscles feature parallel muscle fibers that run in between two muscle tendons. The Pronator Teres has two muscle heads, a Humeral Head and an Ulnar Head.
Pronator Teres Muscle & Cadaver
Pronator Teres Function
The primary function of the Pronator Teres is to pronate the forearm. The Pronator Teres also helps to flex the forearm at the elbow.
Pronator Teres Location
The Pronator Teres is located in the anterior forearm, as part of the superficial flexors of the forearm. Of the superficial flexors of the forearm, the Pronator Teres is the most lateral muscle in this group.
Pronator Teres Origin And Insertion
Pronator Teres Origin
The Humeral Head of the Pronator Teres originates from the Medial Supracondylar Ridge of the Humerus.
The Ulnar Head of the Pronator Teres originates from the Coronoid Process of the Ulna.
Pronator Teres Insertion
The insertion point of the Pronator Teres is the Lateral Surface of the Radius.
Pronator Teres Innervation
The Median Nerve innervates the Pronator Teres muscle.
Pronator Teres Action
The Pronator Teres helps us to perform many actions. Specifically, any action that requires pronation of the forearm. For example, everyday movements such as opening a doorknob, hammering or eating, to sports such as tennis, hockey or volleyball.
Pronator Teres Pain
If you are experiencing pain in the Pronator Teres, it is most likely due to Pronator Teres Syndrome, which is caused by the compression of the Median Nerve.
Pronator Teres Syndrome
Have you ever had your partner fall asleep on your forearm and experienced numbness or tingling that went away once you moved your arm? This is an example of Pronator Teres Syndrome, neuropathy that occurs from the compression of the Median Nerve. The main symptoms of Pronator Teres Syndrome include numbness and tingling in the forearm.
Pronator Teres Injury
The repetitive use of a screwdriver or other tools can also cause overuse injuries to the Pronator Teres. Symptoms of injury can include swelling, tenderness, pain and decreased range of motion. Treatment for Pronator Teres Injury includes massage, ice, heat, and rest.
Pronator Teres Strain
Strain to the Pronator Teres is rare, and generally only occurs in cricket or golf players. This is due to the large force placed on the elbow while it is in a flexed and pronated position. Bruising, inflammation, pain and decreased range of motion are all symptoms of a muscle strain. Visit your doctor to have them properly diagnose your muscle strain and develop an appropriate treatment plan depending on the severity of your Pronator Teres Sprain.
In general, treatment for a muscle strain is conservative, with rest, ice and heat being the most beneficial treatment methods. A physical therapist can also perform electrotherapy and ultrasounds to help reduce your symptoms and heal the Pronator Teres.
Pronator Teres Stretch
To stretch the Pronator Teres, extend the left arm out in front of you. Pronate the arm so that the palm is facing away from the body and your fingertips are pointing downwards. Use your right hand to bend the left fingertips towards the body. Hold this position for at least 30 seconds and then switch arms.
Pronator Teres Exercises
Here are some exercises that will strengthen the Pronator Teres!
Wrist Curls
Wrist Curls are a great way to engage the Pronator Teres. Sit down on a bench with your forearm resting on the thigh, your wrist will be just above the knee. Hold a dumbbell in your hand and curl the wrist towards the body. Try 3 sets of 10 reps and then switch arms.
Weight Hold
Select a plate that is between 5-10kg. Bend at the elbow with the forearm in front of you. Supinate the arm and place the weight on your hand, with the majority of the weight on your thumb. Hold this position for 30 seconds and then switch arms.
Pronation and Supination
Hold a weighted stick in the right hand with your arm extended in front of you. The stick should be perpendicular to the floor. Slowly let the stick drop to the medial side of the body until it is parallel to the ground. Return the stick to its original position by supinating the forearm. Repeat this movement for 3 sets of 10 reps and then switch arms.
