What is Anconeus Muscle and What is its Function?[1]
The Anconeus Muscle is a small muscle that is present in the elbow which connects the medial side of the ulna to the lateral side of the humerus. The primary function of the Anconeus Muscle is to facilitate extension of the elbow and rotation of the forearm like when carrying a tray of dishes.
The Anconeus Muscle is also sometimes known as an extension of the biceps brachii muscle as a result of its location and function. The Anconeus Muscle does not belong to the category of muscles of the arm that are considered as important for the functioning of the hand, although if this muscle is strained or injured the individual will have a tough time flexing the elbow or rotate the forearm which may limit him or her in doing several activities of daily living.
The most common disease condition caused due to strain or injury to the Anconeus Muscle is Tennis Elbow which is quite a common condition seen in sportsmen and makes it difficult for them to bend the elbow normally or carry anything on the injured hand. Anconeus Muscle can be strained due to many factors. Repetitive gripping of heavy objects like a jackhammer for prolonged periods of time can result in Anconeus Muscle Strain or Tear. Anconeus Muscle Strain or Injury is also seen in people who play tennis or golf and are involved in rowing a lot.
Signs and Symptoms of Anconeus Muscle Strain[2]
The classic presenting feature of Anconeus Muscle Strain or Tear is persistent pain in and around the elbow joint. The patient with strained anconeus muscle may find it difficult to grip objects effectively. There will also be decreased range of motion of the elbow. The pain experienced due to Anconeus Muscle Strain or Injury is localized and it does not radiate up or down the arm.
What Can Cause Anconeus Muscle Strain?[3]
Some of the activities that can result in Strained Anconeus Muscle are:
- Repetitive gripping of large objects like a jackhammer for prolonged periods of time can cause anconeus muscle strain
- Sudden straightening of the elbow like when attempting a tough catch during a baseball game
- Repetitive pushing the door closed and open
- Shaking hands frequently
- Playing golf and tennis
- Rowing.
Risk Factors of Anconeus Muscle Strain
Some of the medical conditions that can result in Anconeus Muscle Strain or Tear are:
What is the Treatment for Anconeus Muscle Strain?[4]
Some of the treatments for Anconeus Muscle Strain or Injury are:
Cold Therapy to Treat Anconeus Muscle Strain: Nowadays, there are numerous forms of gels and cold packs that are available over the counter which are very effective in healing a strained or injured Anconeus Muscle. The gels that are available can be used immediately as soon as you start experiencing pain. These gels immediately cool the inflamed area. The gel is used by rubbing it in the area of pain.
Warm Therapy to Treat Anconeus Muscle Strain: This is also an effective method of treating Anconeus Muscle Strain or Tear. The gel provides adequate warmth to the injured area without actually burning the area. It works magnificently in relieving pain caused due to Anconeus Muscle Strain or Injury. This gel needs to be put at the injured area at least two to three times a day for optimum results. It should be noted here that warm therapy should never be used when using ice packs or heat packs as this may result in blistering of the skin.
NSAIDs to Treat Anconeus Muscle Strain: Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatories in the form of ibuprofen and Tylenol can be used for controlling pain and inflammation associated with anconeus muscle strain.
Activity Modification: It is also important on the part of the patient suffering from anconeus muscle strain to stay away from activities that may aggravate the condition like continuing to play tennis or golf despite pain. Taking time off from these activities allows the muscle to heal and speeds up the recovery process from Anconeus Muscle Strain or Injury.
Elbow Wrap: This is also quite an effective way to treat Anconeus Muscle Strain or Injury. You can consult your physician for a prescription for an elbow wrap. This limits the motion of the elbow and allows the muscle to heal faster and also helps in pain relief. The recommended time for wearing the wrap is about half an hour for optimal results.
Compression Sleeves: This can also be prescribed by the physician and also available over the counter. Compression Sleeves helps by supporting the elbow while the strained anconeus muscle heals and helps in pain relief. The sleeve covers the entire muscle and hence the entire Anconeus Muscle is protected from any additional injury or strain. These are quite useful for athletes who play tennis and golf and also construction workers who tend to grip heavy objects for prolonged period of time and hence protect them from getting Anconeus Muscle Strain or Injury.
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