Underarmsflexorerna

Underarmsflexorerna, also known as the axillary flexors, are muscles located in the region of the human underarm (axilla). These muscles play a crucial role in the movement and stabilization of the shoulder joint, contributing to functions such as flexion, adduction, and medial rotation of the upper arm.

The primary muscles classified under underarmsflexorerna include the pectoralis major and pectoralis minor. The pectoralis major is a large, fan-shaped muscle that spans the chest wall, attaching to the humerus, clavicle, and sternum. It is responsible for movements such as flexion, adduction, and medial rotation of the arm. The pectoralis minor lies underneath the pectoralis major, attaching from the third to fifth ribs to the coracoid process of the scapula. It assists in depression and stabilization of the scapula.

These muscles are innervated mainly by the medial and lateral pectoral nerves, branches of the brachial plexus. They receive blood supply from branches of the thoracoacromial artery and the thoracic branch of the axillary artery.

Functionally, underarmsflexorerna are fundamental for various upper limb movements, particularly those involving pushing, lifting, and bringing the arm closer to the body. They also contribute to respiration by helping elevate the ribs during forced inhalation when the arms are fixed.

In clinical practice, understanding these muscles is important for diagnosing and treating shoulder and chest wall injuries. Physical therapy and certain surgical procedures may target these muscles to restore function or alleviate pain associated with musculoskeletal conditions in the shoulder or chest area.