DORSUM PEDIS Meaning and
Definition
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Dorsum pedis is a term used in anatomy to refer to the upper surface or the top of the foot. The word "dorsum" originates from Latin and means "ridge" or "back," while "pedis" also comes from Latin and signifies "of the foot." Thus, the term dorsum pedis can be understood as the dorsal (or top) part of the foot.
The dorsum pedis is characterized by a convex shape, in contrast to the plantar (or sole) surface of the foot, which is typically concave. It extends from the metatarsal bones at the base of the toes to the tarsal bones in the midfoot area. The dorsal surface of the foot is covered by a complex network of tendons, ligaments, muscles, and nerves, all of which contribute to the foot's movements and functionality.
Clinically, the dorsum pedis is a significant anatomical landmark for medical professionals, particularly in diagnostic and examination procedures. Doctors and practitioners often observe the dorsum pedis to assess the condition or appearance of the foot, such as during a physical examination or when searching for specific signs of injury or disease. For example, the pulse of the dorsalis pedis artery, which is a crucial artery supplying blood to the foot, can be palpated on the dorsum pedis in order to evaluate circulatory status.
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The back, or upper surface, of the foot.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for DORSUM PEDIS
- sorsum pedis
- xorsum pedis
- corsum pedis
- forsum pedis
- rorsum pedis
- eorsum pedis
- dirsum pedis
- dkrsum pedis
- dlrsum pedis
- dprsum pedis
- d0rsum pedis
- d9rsum pedis
- doesum pedis
- dodsum pedis
- dofsum pedis
- dotsum pedis
- do5sum pedis
- do4sum pedis
- doraum pedis
- dorzum pedis
Etymology of DORSUM PEDIS
The word "dorsum pedis" is derived from Latin.
The term "dorsum" comes from the Latin word "dorsum", which means "back" or "ridge". It is related to the Proto-Indo-European root "dʰers-" which means "to dare, to stick out". In Latin, "dorsum" is used to refer to the back part of an animal or the upper surface of an object.
The word "pedis" is the genitive form of the Latin word "pes", which means "foot". "Pes" is related to the Proto-Indo-European root "péds" which means "foot".
So, when combined, "dorsum pedis" literally means "the back part of the foot" or "the upper surface of the foot" in Latin.
