Musculus serratus magnus is a Latin term used to describe a powerful muscle group in the human body. The word "musculus" means muscle, "serratus" means serrated or saw-like, and "magnus" means large or great. The correct pronunciation using IPA phonetics is /ˈmʌskjʊləs sɛˈreɪtəs ˈmæɡnəs/. The "s" sounds in "musculus" and "serratus" are pronounced like "z," and the stress is placed on the second syllable of "serratus." Despite its complex spelling and pronunciation, this muscle group plays an important role in the movement of the shoulder blade.
Musculus serratus magnus, also known as the serratus anterior, is a Latin term used in anatomy to describe a specific muscle located on the lateral surface of the thorax. The word "musculus" translates to "muscle," "serratus" refers to the muscle's serrated or saw-toothed appearance, and "magnus" means "large" or "great."
The musculus serratus magnus is a broad and flat muscle that arises from the first through ninth ribs. It extends from the side of the chest wall and wraps around towards the scapula or shoulder blade. This muscle is attached to the medial border of the scapula, between the superior angle and the inferior angle.
The main function of the musculus serratus magnus is to protract and stabilize the scapula, allowing it to move forward and rotate upward. This action helps in various movements of the arm, such as reaching, pushing, and lifting. Additionally, the serratus anterior contributes to the upward rotation of the scapula during overhead activities like throwing or reaching above the head.
Injury or weakness of the musculus serratus magnus can result in a condition called "winged scapula," where the scapula protrudes from the back, impairing shoulder movements and causing pain. Strengthening exercises and targeted rehabilitation are often prescribed to treat this condition and restore proper function to the serratus anterior muscle.
M. serratus anterior.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.