ACTION: extends the elbow
REFERRAL: posterior arm and elbow

COMMENTS:

The triceps muscle is not injured very often, but it can feel really good to work it. When working the attachment near the elbow, be aware of the ulnar nerve that goes between the medial epicondyle of the humerus and the olecranon process of the ulna. The triceps gets its name because it has three heads superiorly. One that attaches to the humerus, and two others that attach to the scapula. The brachii part of the name refers to being on the arm.

The anconeus is small and thin, and on the other side of the elbow from the ulnar nerve. This muscle also is rarely injured. Static pressure to the muscle belly with a fingerpoint while flexing and extending the elbow is an effective and safe way to soften the muscle.