The term "lesser trochanter" refers to a bone structure located in the hip region. The word "lesser" is spelled with a double "s" and an "er" ending, indicating its comparative form. The pronunciation of "lesser" is /ˈlɛsər/, with stress on the first syllable. The word "trochanter" is spelled with a single "t" and an "er" ending, indicating its function as a noun. The pronunciation of "trochanter" is /trəˈkæntər/, with stress on the second syllable. Together, these phonetic transcriptions help explain the spelling of "lesser trochanter".
The lesser trochanter is a bony prominence located on the femur, or thigh bone, that functions as an important attachment point for muscles and ligaments in the hip and thigh region. Specifically, it is a small, cone-shaped projection that extends from the posterior and medial aspect of the femur, just below the greater trochanter.
Anatomically, the lesser trochanter is positioned closer to the shaft of the femur compared to the greater trochanter. It serves as an attachment site for the psoas major, a large muscle responsible for flexion and external rotation of the hip joint. Additionally, the iliofemoral ligament, one of the strong ligaments supporting the hip joint, anchors to the lesser trochanter along with the psoas major.
Due to its location, the lesser trochanter plays a crucial role in the stability and movement of the hip joint. When the psoas major contracts, it pulls on the lesser trochanter, causing flexion and lateral rotation of the hip. This movement is essential for various activities such as walking, running, and climbing stairs.
By understanding the anatomy and function of the lesser trochanter, healthcare professionals can better diagnose and treat conditions or injuries related to this area. Consequently, a comprehensive comprehension of the lesser trochanter aids in enhancing patient care and overall musculoskeletal knowledge.
T. minor.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "lesser trochanter" has its roots in Latin and Greek.
The term "trochanter" comes from the Greek word "trokhantēr", meaning "a bony prominence or wheel-turner". In Greek anatomy, it referred to the bony projection on the femur (thighbone) where muscles of the hip and thigh attach.
The term "lesser" is an English adjective that denotes a smaller or subordinate version of something. In this context, it is used to distinguish the "lesser trochanter" from the "greater trochanter", another bony prominence on the femur.
So, the compound term "lesser trochanter" refers to the smaller bony projection on the femur, which is located on the inner side of the bone compared to the larger "greater trochanter".