Extensor Carpi Ulnaris

Pointer Plus The Pointer Plus is an easy to use trigger point (TP) locator which incorporates a push button stimulation feature to immediately treat Trigger point pain.

The Extensor Carpi Ulnaris is a superficial posterior muscle of the forearm.

Anatomical Attachments:

• Origin: Attaches to the lateral epicondyle of the humerus and from the posterior border of the ulna.
• Insertion: Attaches to the ulnar side of the base of the 5th metacarpal.

Action: Extends the wrist and adducts the hand.

Synergist: Brachioradialis, Supinator, Extensor Carpi radialis brevis and longus, Abductor pollicis longus, Extensor pollicis brevis and longus, Extensor digitorum, Extensor digiti minimi, Extensor indicis.

Antagonist: Pronator teres, Flexor carpi radialis, Palmaris longus, Flexor carpi ulnaris, Flexor digitorum superficialis, Flexor digitorum profundus, Flexor pollicis longus, Pronator quadratus.

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Nerve Supply: Radial nerve (C6, C7, C8).

Vascular supply: Posterior interosseus of the ulnar artery.

• Primary: The pain refers to the medial posterior aspect of the wrist.
• Satellite or associated triggers: Extensor Digitorum and Brachioradialis.

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Trigger Point Signs and Symptoms: Pain is the chief complaint. Grip strength is diminished. This weakness is exacerbated with the hand in ulnar deviation. Pain is exacerbated with forced supination or pronation, such as twisting a butterfly nut, screwdriver, or door knob.

Trigger Point Activating and Perpetuating Factors: Repetitive forceful hand gripping, e.g. gardening, using hammers, writing for long periods, sewing by hand or knitting.

Differential Diagnosis: (Segmental, Subluxation, Somatic dysfunction) C8 radiculopathy, Carpal tunnel syndrome, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Osteoarthritis, Neurogenic Arthropathy (Charcot’s Joint), Sprain/Strain of the wrist, Bone fracture, Bone cancer, Systemic infections or inflammation, Nutritional inadequacy, Metabolic imbalance, Toxicity, Side effects of medication.

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