Which nerve innervates both the triceps brachii and the anconeus?

Which nerve innervates both the triceps brachii and the anconeus?

• A. Radial nerve
• B. Median nerve
• C. Musculocutaneous nerve
• D. Ulnar nerve

Answer: (A)

Radial nerve. The triceps brachii is the main elbow extensor in the posterior arm, and the anconeus is a small muscle near the elbow that assists with elbow extension. Both are innervated by the radial nerve, which supplies the extensor compartments of the arm and forearm. The median nerve mainly innervates flexors in the forearm and some hand muscles; the musculocutaneous nerve targets the anterior arm muscles; the ulnar nerve innervates many intrinsic hand muscles and some forearm flexors. Since only the radial nerve innervates both triceps and anconeus, it is the correct choice.

Radial nerve. The triceps brachii is the main elbow extensor in the posterior arm, and the anconeus is a small muscle near the elbow that assists with elbow extension. Both are innervated by the radial nerve, which supplies the extensor compartments of the arm and forearm. The median nerve mainly innervates flexors in the forearm and some hand muscles; the musculocutaneous nerve targets the anterior arm muscles; the ulnar nerve innervates many intrinsic hand muscles and some forearm flexors. Since only the radial nerve innervates both triceps and anconeus, it is the correct choice.