The spelling of the term "musculus supinator longus" may seem daunting to some due to its length and technicality. However, breaking it down into smaller parts and using IPA phonetic transcription can make it easier to understand. "Musculus" is spelled /'mʌskjuləs/, "supinator" is spelled /'suːpɪneɪtər/, and "longus" is spelled /'lɒŋɡəs/. The term refers to a muscle in the human forearm that is responsible for the supination of the forearm and wrist. Understanding the spelling and pronunciation of medical terms is crucial in the healthcare field.
Musculus supinator longus, also known as the long supinator muscle, is a deep forearm muscle located on the posterior aspect of the upper limb. It runs along the outer aspect of the forearm, originating from the lateral epicondyle of the humerus and the radial collateral ligament, both of which are bony landmarks in the elbow region. The muscle then extends downwards and diagonally crosses the forearm to attach on the radial bone just below the neck, forming a tendinous arch called the supinator arch.
The primary function of the musculus supinator longus is to aid in the supination of the forearm. Supination refers to the movement that rotates the forearm and hand to turn the palm upwards or anteriorly. This action is essential for performing tasks such as holding a cup or opening a door using a key.
The musculus supinator longus works in synergy with other muscles, including the biceps brachii and the musculus supinator brevis, to produce effective supination. Together, these muscles contract to rotate the radius bone around the ulna bone, resulting in the palm-facing-up position.
Although considered a deep muscle, the musculus supinator longus can be located and palpated by externally rotating the forearm against resistance and observing the bulge or prominence that forms on the lateral aspect of the forearm. In certain clinical conditions, such as supinator muscle syndrome or entrapment neuropathy, compression of the musculus supinator longus can lead to pain, weakness, and impaired supination ability.
M. brachioradialis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.