Interosseous membrane

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Interosseous Membrane (In-ter-os-se-ous Mem-brane, from Latin inter meaning "between" and osseous meaning "bone") is a thick, fibrous sheet that connects neighboring long bones in the body. It is a significant anatomical structure found in the forearm and lower leg, specifically between the radius and ulna, and the tibia and fibula respectively.

Anatomy

The Interosseous Membrane serves as a syndesmosis joint, allowing for slight movement and providing stability. It also serves as an attachment site for muscles and helps in weight distribution from the appendicular skeleton to the axial skeleton.

Forearm

In the forearm, the Interosseous Membrane connects the lateral side of the ulna to the medial side of the radius. It plays a crucial role in the pronation and supination of the forearm, facilitated by the pronator teres and supinator muscles.

Lower Leg

In the lower leg, the Interosseous Membrane connects the lateral side of the tibia to the medial side of the fibula. It provides stability to the leg and plays a role in weight distribution during walking and running.

Clinical Significance

Damage to the Interosseous Membrane can lead to instability and impaired movement. In the forearm, this can affect the ability to rotate the hand. In the lower leg, it can impact walking and running. Conditions such as syndesmotic ankle sprain involve damage to the Interosseous Membrane of the lower leg.

Related Terms

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