The word "bicipital ridge" is a term used to describe a prominent muscle attachment site located on the upper arm bone. It is spelled phonetically as /baɪˈsɪpɪtəl rɪdʒ/. The first syllable "bi-" means two, and it corresponds to the two muscles that attach to this ridge. The second syllable, "-cipital," comes from Latin "caput," which means head, referring to the muscle origin. Lastly, "ridge" refers to the bony elevation where these two muscles converge, forming a visible bump on the arm.
The term "bicipital ridge" refers to a prominent anatomical feature found in the human body, particularly in relation to the upper limb. It specifically pertains to a ridge or raised area located on the front surface of the humerus bone, which is the long bone in the upper arm.
Situated on the anterior side of the humerus, the bicipital ridge runs parallel to the bone's shaft and extends from the upper portion of the bone towards the shoulder joint. It is named after the biceps brachii muscle, which originates from this ridge through a tendon attachment.
The bicipital ridge serves as an attachment site for several muscles, tendons, and ligaments involved in the movement and stabilization of the upper limb. It plays a significant role in the flexion and supination of the forearm. The tendon of the long head of the biceps brachii muscle, as well as the attachments of the coracobrachialis muscle and the pectoralis major muscle, are all associated with the bicipital ridge.
The ridge itself can vary in size and prominence among individuals, with some experiencing a more pronounced ridge than others. This morphological diversity is due to genetic factors as well as variations in physical activity levels and muscle development. Clinically, the bicipital ridge can serve as a landmark for locating and palpating the structures that interact with it, aiding in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the upper limb.
One of two elevated lines on the humerus, the anterior or internal, crista tuberculi minoris, and the posterior or external, crista tuberculi majoris.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "bicipital" derives from the Latin word "biceps", which means "two-headed muscle". It comes from "bi-" meaning "two" and "caput" meaning "head". The term "ridge" refers to a long, narrow, elevated strip or crest. Therefore, "bicipital ridge" refers to a raised area or crest related to the biceps muscle.