The spelling of "musculus extensor digitorum communis" may seem daunting, but it can be broken down phonetically. "Musculus" is pronounced "muh-skyoo-luhs," "extensor" is pronounced "ek-sten-sor," "digitorum" is pronounced "dij-i-tawr-uhm," and "communis" is pronounced "kuh-myoo-nis." The IPA phonetic transcription system provides a helpful tool for understanding the sounds that make up complex medical terms. By breaking down each sound, it becomes easier to understand and remember the spelling of these words.
The term "musculus extensor digitorum communis" refers to a specific muscle in the human body. It is part of the extensor muscle group located in the forearm region.
The dictionary definition of musculus extensor digitorum communis can be understood as follows:
Musculus: A Latin word meaning muscle. In human anatomy, it denotes a structure composed of contractile fibers, responsible for generating movement, maintaining posture, and supporting bodily functions.
Extensor: Pertaining to a muscle or tendon that extends or straightens a joint when contracted. Extensor muscles work in opposition to flexor muscles, which bend or flex the joint when contracted.
Digitorum: Referring to the fingers. In this context, it indicates that the muscle primarily functions to control the movement of the digits or fingers.
Communis: From Latin, meaning "common." In this case, it suggests that musculus extensor digitorum communis is a muscle that is shared or common to a group of structures, usually referring to multiple tendons or fingers.
Thus, musculus extensor digitorum communis is a muscle found in the forearm that functions to extend or straighten the fingers. It is responsible for controlling movement and allowing the fingers to move away from the palm, enabling actions such as opening or spreading the hand.
M. Extensor communis digitorum; origin, external epicondyle of humerus; nsertion, by four tendons into the backs of 1st and 2nd and base of terminal phalanges; nerve supply, radial (dorsal interosseous); action, extends fingers.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.