Cubitus

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Cubitus is a term used in anatomy to refer to the elbow or the region of the upper limb surrounding the elbow joint. The term is derived from the Latin word "cubitum," which means elbow. The cubitus is a critical part of the human body, playing a vital role in the movement and function of the arm.

Anatomy of the Cubitus

The cubitus consists of several key anatomical structures, including bones, muscles, ligaments, and nerves.

Bones

The primary bones involved in the cubitus are:

• The humerus, which is the upper arm bone.
• The ulna, which is one of the two forearm bones and is located on the side of the little finger.
• The radius, which is the other forearm bone and is located on the side of the thumb.

Muscles

Several muscles are associated with the cubitus, including:

• The biceps brachii, which is responsible for flexing the elbow.
• The triceps brachii, which is responsible for extending the elbow.
• The brachialis, which also assists in flexing the elbow.

Ligaments

The elbow joint is stabilized by several ligaments, including:

• The ulnar collateral ligament, which is located on the inner side of the elbow.
• The radial collateral ligament, which is located on the outer side of the elbow.
• The annular ligament, which encircles the head of the radius and holds it in place.

Nerves

The cubitus region is innervated by several important nerves, including:

• The ulnar nerve, which runs along the inner side of the elbow and can be felt when the "funny bone" is hit.
• The median nerve, which passes through the cubital fossa, a triangular area on the anterior side of the elbow.
• The radial nerve, which runs along the outer side of the elbow.

Function

The primary function of the cubitus is to allow for the flexion and extension of the forearm, enabling a wide range of movements necessary for daily activities. The elbow joint also allows for the rotation of the forearm, which is essential for tasks such as turning a doorknob or using a screwdriver.

Common Conditions

Several medical conditions can affect the cubitus, including:

• Cubital tunnel syndrome, which occurs when the ulnar nerve becomes compressed or irritated.
• Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis), which is an overuse injury causing pain on the outer side of the elbow.
• Golfer's elbow (medial epicondylitis), which is an overuse injury causing pain on the inner side of the elbow.

Related Pages

• Elbow
• Humerus
• Ulna
• Radius
• Biceps brachii
• Triceps brachii
• Cubital tunnel syndrome
• Tennis elbow
• Golfer's elbow