AnatomyLesson 3 of 3 in the course The Muscular System

Muscles of the Pelvic Girdle, Thigh, Leg, and Foot

5 flashcards · 5 quiz questions · 5 match pairs · 5 fill-in sentences · English

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Summary

The pelvic girdle connects the lower limbs to the torso. Unlike the pectoral girdle, which permits a wide range of movement, the pelvic girdle is firmly connected to the sacrum at the base of the axial skeleton. This arrangement limits pelvic movement and supports the body.

Stability matters during standing and walking. The femoral heads are held in the acetabula, and the body's center of gravity lies in the pelvic region. If the pelvis moved excessively, maintaining balance and moving efficiently would be more difficult. The lower-limb muscles therefore tend to emphasize strength and stabilization as well as movement.

All flashcards

How are the gluteal muscles arranged from superficial to deep?
Gluteus maximus is most superficial, gluteus medius lies beneath it, and gluteus minimus is deepest.
What are two functions of the tensor fascia latae?
It assists with flexion and abduction of the thigh and tightens the iliotibial tract to help stabilize the lateral knee.
Which muscles form the hamstring group, and what are their main actions?
The biceps femoris, semitendinosus, and semimembranosus form the hamstrings. They flex the leg at the knee and extend the thigh.
What is the role of the calcaneal tendon?
It transfers force from superficial posterior leg muscles to the heel by attaching to the calcaneus.
What are intrinsic muscles of the foot?
They originate and insert within the foot and support it while contributing to toe movements.

Quiz questions

  1. Why does the pelvic girdle have less range of motion than the pectoral girdle?Answer: Its connection to the sacrum helps stabilize the body and support the lower limbs.
  2. Which two muscles form the iliopsoas group?Answer: The psoas major and iliacus.
  3. Which muscle helps stabilize the lateral knee by pulling the iliotibial tract taut?Answer: Tensor fascia latae.
  4. Which muscle group is chiefly responsible for extending the knee?Answer: The quadriceps femoris group.
  5. What do the superior and inferior extensor retinacula do at the ankle?Answer: They hold anterior-compartment tendons in place during dorsiflexion.

Based on Anatomy and Physiology 2e by J. Gordon Betts, Kelly A. Young, James A. Wise, Eddie Johnson, Brandon Poe, Dean H. Kruse, Oksana Korol, Jody E. Johnson, Mark Womble, Peter DeSaix (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.

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