Lower extremity

Lower Extremity

The Lower Extremity or Lower Limb refers to the part of the human body extending from the hip to the foot. It includes the hip, thigh, knee, leg, ankle, and foot. The lower extremity plays a crucial role in activities such as standing, walking, running, and jumping.

Anatomy

The lower extremity is divided into several parts:

• Hip: The hip is a ball-and-socket joint that connects the lower limb to the pelvic bone. It is responsible for supporting the weight of the body in both static (e.g. standing) and dynamic (e.g. walking or running) postures.

• Thigh: The thigh is the part of the lower limb located between the hip and the knee. It contains the femur, the longest bone in the human body.

• Knee: The knee is a hinge joint that connects the thigh with the leg. It is one of the largest and most complex joints in the human body.

• Leg: The leg is the part of the lower limb located between the knee and the ankle. It contains the tibia and fibula, the two bones located in the lower leg.

• Ankle: The ankle is a hinge joint that connects the leg with the foot. It allows up-and-down movement of the foot.

• Foot: The foot is the lowermost part of the lower limb. It is responsible for supporting the weight of the body and for propulsion during walking and running.

Function

The lower extremity plays a crucial role in many activities, including standing, walking, running, and jumping. It also plays a key role in maintaining balance and stability.

Diseases and Conditions

There are many diseases and conditions that can affect the lower extremity, including Arthritis, Diabetes, Peripheral Artery Disease, and Venous Insufficiency. Treatment for these conditions can range from medication and physical therapy to surgery.

See Also

• Upper Extremity
• Human Skeleton
• Human Muscular System

Lower extremity Resources
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