List of muscles

The human body contains over 600 muscles that play crucial roles in both movement and maintenance of posture. Muscles are categorized into three main types: skeletal, cardiac, and smooth muscles. This article provides an overview of some of the major muscles and muscle groups found in the human body.

Types of Muscles

Skeletal Muscles

Skeletal muscles, also known as striated muscles, are responsible for the movement of bones and the body. They are under voluntary control, meaning they can be consciously controlled by the brain.

Cardiac Muscle

The cardiac muscle is a specialized form of muscle found only in the heart. It is responsible for pumping blood throughout the body and, unlike skeletal muscle, operates involuntarily.

Smooth Muscles

Smooth muscles are found within the walls of organs and structures such as the stomach, intestines, and blood vessels. Unlike skeletal muscles, smooth muscles are not under voluntary control and function involuntarily.

Major Muscle Groups

The Muscular System

The muscular system of the human body is divided into several major groups. These include, but are not limited to, the muscles of the head and neck, the muscles of the trunk, the muscles of the upper limb, and the muscles of the lower limb.

Head and Neck Muscles

• Masseter - involved in chewing.
• Sternocleidomastoid - rotates and flexes the head.

Trunk Muscles

• Pectoralis Major - a large muscle in the upper chest, fanning across the chest from the shoulder to the breastbone.
• Rectus Abdominis - commonly known as the "abs," this muscle is located in the front of the abdomen.

Upper Limb Muscles

• Biceps Brachii - located in the front of the upper arm, responsible for flexing the elbow and rotating the forearm.
• Triceps Brachii - located in the back of the upper arm, responsible for extending the elbow.

Lower Limb Muscles

• Quadriceps Femoris - a group of muscles located in the front of the thigh, responsible for extending the knee.
• Hamstrings - located at the back of the thigh, responsible for flexing the knee.

See Also

• Muscular System
• Anatomy
• Physiology