The Extensor Indicis Muscle is a skeletal muscle located in the forearm that extends the fingers. Its name may appear daunting, but its spelling can be broken down using IPA phonetic transcription. It is pronounced /ɪkˈstɛnsɔrˈɪn.dɪs ˈmʌsəl/. Each syllable is pronounced distinctly, with stress on the first syllable of "extensor" and the second syllable of "indicis". Being familiar with phonetic symbols can clear up confusion and make complex medical terms more manageable.
The extensor indicis muscle is a skeletal muscle located in the forearm of humans and other primates. It is a long, narrow muscle that originates on the posterior surface of the ulna bone and the interosseous membrane, which is a fibrous tissue connecting the ulna and radius bones. The muscle belly then extends longitudinally along the posterior surface of the forearm.
The primary function of the extensor indicis muscle is to assist in the extension of the index finger, hence its name. It achieves this by attaching to the index finger through a tendon that passes through the dorsal aspect of the hand. When the muscle contracts, it pulls on the tendon, causing the index finger to extend or straighten.
In addition to its role in extending the index finger, the extensor indicis muscle also contributes to the overall extension of the wrist joint. It works in conjunction with other extensor muscles in the forearm to allow movements such as lifting, pushing, and grasping objects.
The extensor indicis muscle is innervated by the posterior interosseous nerve, a branch of the radial nerve. This nerve provides the necessary electrical signals for the muscle to contract and perform its functions.