What are the actions of the flexor carpi ulnaris?

The flexor carpi ulnaris primarily functions to flex the wrist joint and facilitate ulnar deviation. This means that when this muscle contracts, it brings the palm of the hand closer to the anterior aspect of the forearm while simultaneously moving the wrist towards the ulnar side, or the side of the little finger.

Wrist flexion refers to the bending of the wrist, which is the primary action of the flexor carpi ulnaris. Ulnar deviation involves the movement of the wrist towards the ulnar side, resulting in the little finger moving closer to the forearm. This muscle's anatomical position on the ulnar side of the forearm supports these specific actions effectively.

In contrast, wrist extension (as mentioned in some other choices) is performed by different muscles, primarily those located on the posterior aspect of the forearm. Radial deviation, which involves movement towards the thumb side, is also facilitated by different muscle groups, thus clarifying why the other options focus on actions that don't involve the flexor carpi ulnaris specifically.