Muscles That Move the Forearm

Biceps brachii

Origin: Coracoid process (short head); tubercle above glenoid cavity of scapula (long head)

Insertion: Radial tuberosity

Action: Flexes forearm at elbow; supinates forearm and hand

Brachialis

Origin: Anterior surface of humerus

Insertion: Coronoid process of ulna

Action: Flexes forearm at elbow

Brachioradialis

Origin: Distal lateral end of humerus

Insertion: Lateral surface of radius above styloid process

Action: Flexes forearm at elbow

Triceps brachii

Origin: Tubercle below glenoid cavity of scapula (long head); lateral surface of humerus (lateral head); posterior surface of humerus (medial head)
Insertion: Olecranon process of ulna
Action: Extends forearm at elbow

Supinator

Origin: Lateral epicondyle of humerus and proximal ulna

Insertion: Anterior and lateral surface of radius

Action: Supinates forearm and hand

Pronator teres

Origin: Medial epicondyle of humerus and coronoid process of ulna

Insertion: Lateral surface of radius

Action: Pronates forearm and hand

Pronator quadratus

Origin: Anterior distal end of ulna

Insertion: Anterior distal end of radius

Action: Pronates forearm and hand