Muscles
Extensor carpi radialis
Extends and radially deviates the wrist.
Overview
Extends and radially deviates the wrist. Trigger points here are common in everyday and athletic populations and frequently contribute to the referred pain patterns described below.
Trigger point locations
Dorsal lateral forearm just distal to the lateral epicondyle.
Referred pain pattern
Lateral elbow and the dorsum of the hand — classic 'tennis elbow' presentation.
Palpation & testing
Palpate the muscle belly along its accessible course. Reproduction of the patient's familiar pain on palpation supports involvement.
Common causes
Mouse use, racquet sports, repeated gripping.
Self-care & clinical treatment
Eccentric wrist extension, grip strengthening. Clinically: needling, address grip ergonomics.
Symptoms commonly linked
References
- • Travell & Simons — Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction