"Calcar femorale" is a term used in anatomy that refers to a ridge on the femur bone. The spelling of this word can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) phonetic transcription. The first word, "calcar," is pronounced /ˈkælkər/ with the stress on the first syllable, and the second word, "femorale," is pronounced /fɪˈmɒrəli/ with the stress on the second syllable. The spelling of this word reflects the Latin origin of the term and is commonly used in medical terminology.
The term "calcar femorale" refers to a bony prominence located on the medial aspect of the femur, specifically on the femoral neck. It appears as a small, pointed projection that extends from the medial surface of the neck and can often be described as a spur or ridge. The calcar femorale is an anatomical feature found in humans and several other mammalian species.
This bony structure serves as an attachment site for several ligaments and tendons in the hip joint region. It plays a crucial role in providing stability and support to the joint, helping to maintain proper alignment and range of motion during movement. The calcar femorale participates in the load-bearing function of the hip, transmitting forces from the femur to the pelvis during weight-bearing activities such as walking, running, and jumping.
In addition to its mechanical significance, the calcar femorale can also be of diagnostic importance in certain medical conditions. Pathological changes, such as bone spurs or degenerative growths, can occur in the area, sometimes causing pain or affecting the range of motion in the hip joint. Therefore, the calcar femorale may be assessed through medical imaging techniques, such as X-rays or CT scans, to evaluate the integrity of the hip joint and aid in diagnosing and treating related conditions.
Bigelow's septum, a bony spur springing from the under side of the neck of the femur above and anterior to the lesser trochanter, adding to the strength of this part of the bone.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "calcar femorale" has Latin origins. "Calcar" means "spur" or "goad" in Latin, while "femorale" refers to the "femur" or the thigh bone. When combined, "calcar femorale" can be translated as "thigh spur" or "femoral spur". In anatomical terms, it commonly refers to a bony prominence or process located on the femur.