Crurotarsal

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Crurotarsal is a term used in the field of anatomy to describe a specific type of joint found in the ankle of some animals. The term is derived from the Latin words "crus" meaning "leg" and "tarsus" meaning "ankle".

Etymology[edit | edit source]

The term "crurotarsal" is derived from two Latin words: "crus", which means "leg", and "tarsus", which means "ankle". This term is used to describe a specific type of joint found in the ankle of some animals.

Description[edit | edit source]

The crurotarsal joint is a type of articulation that allows for a large range of motion. This joint is characterized by the articulation between the crus, or lower leg, and the tarsus, or ankle. In a crurotarsal joint, the astragalus bone articulates with the tibia and fibula, allowing for movement in multiple planes.

Animals with Crurotarsal Joints[edit | edit source]

Crurotarsal joints are found in a variety of animals, including many reptiles and birds. In these animals, the crurotarsal joint allows for a high degree of flexibility and mobility, enabling them to run, jump, and climb with ease. Some examples of animals with crurotarsal joints include crocodiles, dinosaurs, and birds.

Comparison with Other Joints[edit | edit source]

The crurotarsal joint is often compared to the mesotarsal joint, which is found in animals such as mammals. While both types of joints allow for a range of motion, the crurotarsal joint is generally considered to be more flexible and adaptable. This is due to the fact that the crurotarsal joint allows for movement in multiple planes, while the mesotarsal joint primarily allows for movement in a single plane.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Crurotarsal Resources

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD