The word "Musculus Sternocleidomastoideus" is a mouthful in terms of its spelling. To break it down with phonetic transcription, the first word "Musculus" is pronounced /ˈmʌskjələs/. The second word "Sternocleidomastoideus" is pronounced /stɜːr.noʊ.klaɪ.dəʊ.mæs.tɔɪˈdiː.əs/. The word refers to a muscle in the neck that originates from the sternum and clavicle and inserts on the mastoid process of the temporal bone. Despite the daunting spelling, medical professionals frequently use this term in their work.
The musculus sternocleidomastoideus, commonly known as the sternocleidomastoid muscle, is a long, superficial muscle that is located in the anterior (front) region of the neck. It derives its name from its attachments to the sternum, clavicle, and mastoid process of the temporal bone.
This muscle is prominently visible on either side of the neck and is responsible for various movements and actions of the head and neck. It has two belly portions, one on each side of the midline, which originate from the sternum and clavicle, and they converge to form a thick, rounded tendon that inserts into the mastoid process of the skull.
The primary function of the sternocleidomastoid muscle is to facilitate movement of the head and neck. Acting unilaterally, it causes head rotation to the opposite side and lateral flexion of the neck to the same side. When both sides contract together, it flexes the neck and elevates the sternum. It also provides stability to the head and cervical spine during activities such as running, bending, and turning.
Injuries or abnormalities affecting the musculus sternocleidomastoideus can lead to various issues, including neck pain, limited range of motion, torticollis (abnormal head position characterized by a twisted neck), and muscular imbalances. Proper stretching and strengthening exercises can help maintain the health and functionality of this muscle, and treatment by healthcare professionals may be required for any specific conditions or injuries that arise.
Origin, by two heads from anterior surface of manubrium sterni and sternal end of clavicle; insertion, mastoid process and outer half of superior curved line of occipital bone; action, turns head obliquely to opposite side; when acting together, the two pull head downward and forward; nerve supply, spinal accessory.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "Musculus Sternocleidomastoideus" is a Latin term that can be broken down into three parts: "musculus", "sternocleidomastoid", and "eus".
1. "Musculus" is a Latin word meaning "muscle".
2. "Sternocleidomastoid" is a composite word formed from three roots:
- "Sterno-" refers to the sternum, the breastbone.
- "Cleido-" derives from "cleidomastoid", which describes the clavicle or collarbone.
- "Mastoid" relates to the mastoid process, a bony prominence behind the ear.
3. The suffix "-eus" is a Latin suffix used to indicate someone or something belonging to a particular class or category.