Calcar pedis is a Latin term that refers to the heel bone. The word is pronounced as /kalkar ˈpɛdɪs/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable "cal" is pronounced as "kahl," and the second syllable "car" is pronounced as "kar." The next syllable "pe" is pronounced as "pɛ," and the final syllable "dis" is pronounced as "dɪs." The spelling of calcar pedis may seem intimidating at first, but it is essential to understand medical terminology and anatomy.
Calcar pedis is a term used in anatomy to refer to a bony prominence located on the posterior aspect of the heel bone or calcaneus. Derived from Latin, "calcar" means spur, and "pedis" refers to the foot.
The calcar pedis is a small, pointed projection that extends posteriorly from the inferior surface of the calcaneus, near its middle region. It serves as an attachment site for several important structures, such as the plantar aponeurosis, which is a band of connective tissue that supports the arch of the foot. The calcar pedis also serves as the point of origin for the abductor hallucis muscle, which is responsible for moving the big toe away from the midline of the foot.
In addition to its anatomical significance, the calcar pedis can also be relevant in medical contexts. Calcaneal spurs, also known as osteophytes, can form in association with the calcar pedis. These are bony outgrowths that develop due to chronic inflammation or excessive tension in the plantar fascia. Calcaneal spurs can cause pain and discomfort, particularly when weight is applied to the affected foot. They are commonly associated with conditions such as plantar fasciitis, an inflammatory disorder affecting the plantar fascia, and Achilles tendonitis, inflammation of the Achilles tendon. Treatment of calcaneal spurs often involves addressing the underlying cause and may include physical therapy, medications, orthotic devices, and in some cases, surgical intervention.
Heel, calx.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The phrase "calcar pedis" is of Latin origin. Here is the breakdown of the etymology:
1. Calcar: In Latin, "calcar" means "spur" or "goad". It is derived from the verb "calcare", which means "to spur" or "to goad". This verb is related to the noun "calx", meaning "heel".
2. Pedis: In Latin, "pedis" is the genitive singular form of the noun "pes", which means "foot". It is derived from the Proto-Indo-European root "*ped-", which has the same meaning.
So, "calcar pedis" literally translates to "spur of the foot" or "goad of the foot" in English.