Common extensor tendon
Tendo extensorius communis
Definition
The common extensor tendon is a strong, shared tendinous structure that originates from the lateral epicondyle of the humerus. It acts as a crucial point of origin for several muscles in the posterior compartment of the forearm, all of which are involved in extending the wrist and fingers. The muscles arising from the common extensor origin include:
While the extensor carpi radialis longus primarily originates from the lateral supracondylar ridge (just above the epicondyle), it also contributes some fibers to this common extensor tendon.
Beyond providing muscle attachments, the common extensor tendon has broad connections to nearby structures, including the joint capsule of the elbow and the lateral collateral ligament, reinforcing the stability of the elbow joint.
References
Borowski, L. and Lintner, L. (2018) 'Evaluation and Management of Acute Sprains and Strains', in Olympia, R.P., O’Neill, R.M. and Silvis, M.L. (eds.) Urgent Care Medicine Secrets. Philadelphia: Elsevier, pp. 182-186.