Lumbricals
Lumbricals
Lumbricals (pronunciation: lum·bri·cals) are a group of four intrinsic muscles found in the hand and foot. They are named for their worm-like appearance, with the term "lumbrical" derived from the Latin word "lumbricus", meaning earthworm.
Etymology
The term "lumbrical" is derived from the Latin word "lumbricus", which translates to "earthworm". This is due to the worm-like appearance of these muscles.
Function
The lumbricals of the hand are responsible for flexing the metacarpophalangeal joints and extending the interphalangeal joints. This allows for intricate movements such as pinching and gripping. The lumbricals of the foot, on the other hand, play a crucial role in maintaining balance and facilitating walking by flexing the metatarsophalangeal joints and extending the interphalangeal joints.
Anatomy
The lumbricals originate from the tendons of the flexor digitorum profundus in the hand and the flexor digitorum longus in the foot. They insert into the extensor hoods of the digits. Each lumbrical is innervated by the median nerve or the ulnar nerve in the hand, and by the medial plantar nerve or the lateral plantar nerve in the foot.
Related Terms
- Flexor digitorum profundus
- Flexor digitorum longus
- Median nerve
- Ulnar nerve
- Medial plantar nerve
- Lateral plantar nerve
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Lumbricals
- Wikipedia's article - Lumbricals
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