Lower limb
The lower limb, an essential component of human anatomy, plays a pivotal role in locomotion, balance, and weight-bearing. It stretches from the pelvis down to the toes, encapsulating an array of bones, muscles, vessels, and nerves that collectively facilitate movement and sensation.
The Components of the Lower Limb[edit | edit source]
The lower limb can be methodically dissected into distinct regions, each possessing its unique anatomical structures and functions.
Pelvic Girdle[edit | edit source]
The pelvic girdle acts as a sturdy connection between the axial skeleton and the lower limbs. It is composed of:
Two coxal (hip) bones, which further subdivide into:
The union of these bones at the acetabulum forms a socket for the head of the femur, thereby constructing the hip joint.
Buttocks[edit | edit source]
Located posteriorly to the pelvis, the buttocks house:
Gluteus Maximus, Gluteus Medius, and Gluteus Minimus: Muscles instrumental in hip extension, abduction, and rotation. The region also possesses a substantial fat deposit, providing cushioning during sitting.
Hip[edit | edit source]
The hip is a ball-and-socket joint formed between:
The acetabulum of the pelvic girdle The head of the femur (thigh bone) It facilitates a broad range of movements including flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, and rotation.
Thigh[edit | edit source]
Situated between the hip and the knee, the thigh houses:
- Femur: The longest and strongest bone in the human body.
Muscles groups like:
- Quadriceps (anterior): Important for knee extension.
- Hamstrings (posterior): Involved in knee flexion and hip extension.
Components Distal to the Knee[edit | edit source]
Following the thigh, the lower limb further extends to include:
Leg: Encompassing the region between the knee and the ankle. It contains two bones:
- Tibia: Medially located and weight-bearing.
- Fibula: Laterally situated and non-weight-bearing.
Foot: Divided into the hindfoot, midfoot, and forefoot. It plays a crucial role in balance, weight distribution, and propulsion.
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Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD