Gross Muscle Anatomy

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts related to gross muscle anatomy.

Prime Mover (Agonist)

The primary muscle responsible for a given movement.

Antagonist

Muscles that oppose a given movement.

Synergist

Muscles that aid agonists by preventing unwanted movement at a particular joint.

Fixator

A special type of synergist that immobilizes the origin of another muscle.

Origin of a Muscle

The immovable attachment site of a muscle.

Insertion of a Muscle

The movable attachment site of a muscle.

Direction of Muscle Fibers

Muscles can be named according to the orientation of the fibers relative to the longitudinal axis; rectus (parallel), transverse (perpendicular), oblique (at an angle).

Maximus

Refers to the largest of a group of muscles.

Minimus

Refers to the smallest of a group of muscles.

Biceps

A muscle with two origins.

Sternocleidomastoid

A muscle named for its two origins (sternum and clavicle) and one insertion (mastoid process).

Deltoid Muscle

A triangular muscle named for its shape, resembling the Greek letter delta (Δ).

Flexor Digitorum

Muscle that causes flexion at the joints of the fingers (digits).

Adductor Longus

Muscle that adducts the thigh at the hip joint.