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Pronator quadratus origin and insertion

Pronator quadratus runs from the ulna to the radius.

What are the origin and insertion of pronator quadratus?

Pronator quadratus arises from the lower quarter of the front of the ulna. It inserts on the lower quarter of the front of the radius. Its main action is pronation of the forearm. It is supplied by the anterior interosseous nerve (C8, T1), a branch of the median nerve. The attachments, actions and nerve follow Gray (1918).

Every attachment and its bone

Origin 1

Origin of pronator quadratus, with the bone each is on
Attachment Bone
Lower quarter of the front of the ulna Ulna

Insertion 1

Insertion of pronator quadratus, with the bone each is on
Attachment Bone
Lower quarter of the front of the radius Radius

Actions

The actions of pronator quadratus, and which are its main ones
Action What moves Main or assisting
Pronation With the elbow bent, the palm turns from facing up to facing down Main action

Each action is stated in the anatomical position: standing, arms by the sides, palms forward.

Innervation

The anterior interosseous nerve (C8, T1), a branch of the median nerve.

Sources

The values are facts and free to use; this page’s selection and presentation are © 2026 ScienceQuest.

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