The word "fossa infraspinata" is a term used in anatomy to describe a depression in the scapula bone. The spelling of this word can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). "Fossa" is pronounced /ˈfɒsə/, with the "o" pronounced as "ah", while "infraspinata" is pronounced /ˌɪnfrəspaɪˈneɪtə/, with the stress on the second syllable. The "s" in "infraspinata" is pronounced as "z" due to the following vowel sound, and the "a" is pronounced as "ay". Understanding the phonetic transcription can help in accurately pronouncing and understanding medical terminology.
The term "fossa infraspinata" refers to a specific anatomical structure found within the human body. It is a Latin term that translates to "lower spine pit" in English. This structure is primarily located in the scapula, also known as the shoulder blade.
The fossa infraspinata is a shallow, concave depression or cavity on the posterior side of the scapula. It is positioned below the spine of the scapula, which is a prominent bony ridge on the upper surface of the bone. The fossa infraspinata is bounded by the medial border, lateral border, superior border, and the scapular spine.
This particular structure serves as an attachment site for several muscles, including the infraspinatus muscle, teres minor muscle, and the posterior deltoid muscle. These muscles play important roles in the movement and stabilization of the shoulder joint.
The fossa infraspinata is also involved in the form and function of the shoulder girdle. It plays a crucial role in shoulder abduction and external rotation, allowing for a wide range of arm movements.
Overall, the fossa infraspinata is an anatomical feature of the scapula that provides attachment points for important muscles involved in shoulder movement and stability.
The hollow on the dorsal aspect of the scapula below the spine, giving attachment chiefly to the infraspinatus muscle.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "fossa infraspinata" has Latin origins. Here is the breakdown of its etymology:
1. Fossa: In Latin, "fossa" means a ditch, trench, or pit. It is derived from the verb "fodere", which means "to dig". In anatomy, "fossa" refers to a depression, hollow, or groove in a bone or tissue.
2. Infraspinata: This term consists of two parts – "infra" and "spinata".
- Infra: Derived from Latin, "infra" means "below" or "beneath". It corresponds to the English prefix "infra-".
- Spinata: This word is derived from the Latin term "spina", which means a thorn, spine, or backbone.