The spelling of "musculus flexor digitorum profundus" can be a challenge, but understanding its IPA phonetic transcription can make it easier. The word is pronounced as /ˈmʌskjʊləs ˈfleksər dɪdʒɪˈtɔːrəm prəʊˈfʌndəs/. The first element, "musculus," means muscle, while "flexor" means a muscle that contracts to flex a joint. "Digitorum" refers to fingers, and "profundus" means deep. Together, the word refers to a deep flexor muscle of the fingers. Mastering the correct spelling requires both knowledge of English and its phonetic symbols.
The term "musculus flexor digitorum profundus" refers to a specific skeletal muscle located in the forearm, also known as the deep flexor muscle of the fingers. The Latin name consists of three elements: "musculus" meaning muscle, "flexor" referring to its function as a muscle group involved in flexing or bending movement, and "digitorum profundus" meaning deep fingers.
The musculus flexor digitorum profundus originates from the medial and anterior surfaces of the ulna, which is one of the two bones in the forearm, and also from the interosseous membrane between the ulna and the radius. It then runs deep within the forearm adjacent to the musculus flexor digitorum superficialis, which is the superficial flexor muscle. The tendons of the musculus flexor digitorum profundus pass through the carpal tunnel at the wrist and attach to the distal phalanges, the bones at the tip of each finger.
The main function of the musculus flexor digitorum profundus is to flex or bend the joints of the four fingers, excluding the thumb. This muscle provides the ability to make a fist, grasp objects, and perform fine motor movements involving finger flexion. It is controlled by the median and ulnar nerves, which transmit signals from the brain to the muscle fibers.
In summary, the musculus flexor digitorum profundus is a deep forearm muscle responsible for flexing the four fingers of the hand, allowing for important functions such as gripping and manipulating objects.
M. flexor profundus digitorum; origin, anterior surface of upper third of ulna; insertion, by four tendons, piercing those of the sublimis, into base of terminal phalanx of each finger; nerve supply, ulnar and median (volar interosseous); action, flexes terminal phalanges of fingers.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.