The word "trochiter" is a medical term used to describe a bony process on the upper part of the humerus bone. It is pronounced as /ˈtrɒkɪtər/ with an emphasis on the first syllable. The word is derived from the Greek word "trochiterion" which means a wheel or pulley. The spelling of this word is interesting because it uses the "ch" sound, which is spelled with the letter combination "ch" instead of just "h". This shows how some words have unique spellings that reflect their origins and history.
Trochiter, also known as the greater tubercle, is a bony prominence found on the upper end of the humerus bone in humans and certain other vertebrates. It is a rounded structure located on the lateral (outer) aspect of the proximal humerus, specifically on the greater tuberosity.
An essential component of the shoulder joint, the trochiter serves as an attachment point for various muscles and ligaments involved in shoulder movement. These include the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, and teres minor muscles, as well as the superior glenohumeral ligament. The trochiter plays a vital role in allowing motion and stability within the shoulder joint, particularly during activities such as throwing or lifting.
The trochiter is distinguished by its prominent and rounded shape, serving as a crucial landmark for anatomical orientation and anthropological studies. Its name derives from the Greek word 'trokhos', meaning "wheel," in reference to its shape resembling a small wheel.
Pathological conditions that may affect the trochiter include fractures, avulsion injuries, or inflammation. In cases of injury or disease, the trochiter's function may be impaired, resulting in restricted shoulder movement and discomfort. Treatments for trochiter-related conditions can range from conservative approaches such as rest and physical therapy to more invasive interventions like surgical repair or reconstruction.
Understanding the anatomy and role of the trochiter is imperative in the fields of orthopedics, anatomy, and sports medicine, as it contributes to the overall function and health of the shoulder joint.
The greater tuberosity of the humerus, tuberculum majus; cf. trochin.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "trochiter" is derived from the Greek term "trokhiterion", which comes from "trokhos" meaning "wheel" or "pulley". This term was used in ancient Greek anatomy to refer to the humerus bone, specifically the rounded prominence at the proximal end of the bone where it articulates with the scapula. The term "trochiter" is commonly used in the field of medical anatomy to denote this particular anatomical structure.