Sesamoid
Sesamoid
Sesamoid (pronunciation: /ˈsɛsəˌmɔɪd/) is a term used in anatomy to describe a type of bone that is embedded within a tendon or a muscle. It is derived from the Latin word "sesamum" due to the small size of most sesamoid bones, which are often comparable to a sesame seed.
Etymology
The term "sesamoid" is derived from the Latin word "sesamum", meaning "sesame seed". This is due to the small size of most sesamoid bones, which are often comparable to a sesame seed. The term was first used in this context in the 17th century.
Function
Sesamoid bones act like pulleys, providing a smooth surface for tendons to slide over, increasing the tendon's ability to transmit muscular forces. The presence of sesamoid bones in a body part implies that that body part is subject to high levels of mechanical stress.
Examples
The most well-known sesamoid bones are the patella (knee cap) and the two sesamoid bones in the foot located beneath the first metatarsal bone. Other sesamoid bones include the pisiform (smallest of the carpal bones in the hand), and the fabella, a small sesamoid bone found in some mammals behind the knee.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Sesamoid
- Wikipedia's article - Sesamoid
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