The term "musculus extensor carpi ulnaris" is a mouthful to say and spell. The word "musculus" is spelled [ˈmʌskjuləs], while "extensor" is pronounced [ɪksˈtɛnsər]. "Carpi" is spelled [ˈkɑrpi] and "ulnaris" is pronounced [ʌlˈnɛrɪs]. All together, the word is pronounced [ˈmʌskjuləs ɪksˈtɛnsər ˈkɑrpi ʌlˈnɛrɪs]. This term refers to the muscle that extends and abducts the wrist, and is important to know for those studying anatomy or medical terminology.
Musculus extensor carpi ulnaris is a Latin term that refers to a specific skeletal muscle located in the human forearm. The term can be broken down into two components: "musculus," meaning muscle, and "extensor carpi ulnaris," which describes the muscle's function and location.
The extensor carpi ulnaris is a long muscle that runs along the posterior (back) aspect of the forearm. It originates from the lateral epicondyle of the humerus, a bony prominence on the outer side of the elbow joint. From there, it extends downwards, passing along the ulnar (inner) side of the forearm. The muscle finally inserts into the base of the fifth metacarpal bone, a long bone located in the hand.
The primary function of the musculus extensor carpi ulnaris is to contribute to the extension and abduction of the wrist joint. It acts as a powerful extensor, meaning it assists in straightening the wrist. Additionally, it plays a role in moving the wrist towards the ulnar side of the forearm, a movement known as ulnar deviation. By working together with other muscles in the region, the extensor carpi ulnaris aids in the execution of various fine motor skills and precision movements, such as gripping objects and playing musical instruments.
In summary, the musculus extensor carpi ulnaris is a skeletal muscle located in the forearm that primarily acts as an extensor and abductor of the wrist joint while also contributing to ulnar deviation.
M. ulnaris externus; origin, external epicondyle of humerus; insertion, base of fifth metacarpal bone; nerve supply, radial (dorsal interosseous); action, extends and abducts wrist.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.