Musculus extensor pollicis brevis is a Latin term that refers to a specific muscle in the human hand that extends the thumb. The correct spelling of this term can seem daunting, but it can be easily understood using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) phonetic transcription system. The phonetic transcription of "musculus extensor pollicis brevis" is /ˈmʌskjələs ɪkˈstɛnsər ˈpɒlɪs ˈbrɛvɪs/. By breaking down the pronunciation of each individual sound, the spelling of this term becomes less intimidating.
The musculus extensor pollicis brevis, commonly known as the extensor pollicis brevis muscle, is a specific skeletal muscle found in the human body. The term "musculus" refers to a muscle, "extensor" indicates its role in extending or straightening a body part, "pollicis" pertains to the thumb, and "brevis" translates to short. Therefore, the musculus extensor pollicis brevis is a small muscle that is responsible for extending the thumb.
Anatomically, the musculus extensor pollicis brevis is located in the posterior compartment of the forearm. It originates from the posterior surface of the radius bone, near the interosseous membrane, and its tendon passes through a groove on the dorsal aspect of the radius before inserting onto the base of the proximal phalanx of the thumb.
The primary function of the musculus extensor pollicis brevis is to extend the thumb at the metacarpophalangeal joint, allowing for movements such as pointing, hitchhiking, or gripping objects. It works in synergy with other muscles of the hand and forearm to ensure coordinated movements and precise control of thumb extension.
Injuries or conditions that affect the musculus extensor pollicis brevis, such as strains or tendonitis, can result in weakness or limited mobility of the thumb. Rehabilitation exercises and appropriate treatment are usually employed to restore optimal function and alleviate symptoms associated with these impairments.
M. extensor primi internodii pollicis; origin, dorsal surface of radius; insertion, base of 1st phalanx of thumb; nerve supply, radial; action, extends and abducts 1st phalanx of thumb.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.