The pronator teres muscle is a key anatomical structure located in the forearm region of the upper limb. It plays a vital role in forearm pronation, which is the movement of turning the palm downwards or towards the posterior aspect of the forearm. This muscle is part of the superficial layer of the anterior compartment…
Introduction The trigeminal nerve (CN V) is its fifth and largest cranial nerve. Its primary function is to provide sensory innervation to the face, which is divided into three major branches. The ophthalmic (V1), maxillary (V2), and mandibular (V3) nerves are the three branches. The trigeminal ganglia, located within the Meckel’s cave of the middle…
The brachioradialis muscle is a forearm muscle that plays a significant role in both the flexion and extension of the forearm. It is located on the lateral side of the forearm, running from the distal end of the humerus (upper arm bone) down to the radius (one of the two bones of the forearm). Additionally,…
Introduction The trochlear nerve, or fourth cranial nerve (CN IV), acts as one of the ocular motor nerves that regulate eye movement. As the only cranial nerve with a dorsal outflow from the brainstem, the trochlear nerve, despite being the smallest, has the longest intracranial path. It starts in the midbrain and travels laterally and…
The sternocleidomastoid muscle, often abbreviated as SCM, is a prominent muscle located in the neck. Its name is derived from its points of origin and insertion: the sternum (sterno-), clavicle (cleido-), and mastoid process of the temporal bone (mastoid). This large, superficial muscle plays a crucial role in various head movements, including rotation, flexion, and…
Introduction The oculomotor nerve is the third cranial nerve (CN III), and its name indicates its function. The oculomotor nerve will innervate muscles that move the eye or its components, as implied by the name alone. The nerve’s ability to move makes it an effective indicator of brain injury. It is a mixed nerve with…
The large, flat latissimus dorsi muscle occupies the majority of the lower posterior thorax. Although the muscle’s main job is to move the upper limb, it also serves as an auxiliary muscle for breathing. Owing to this muscle’s extensive attachment to the thoracolumbar fascia and several vertebral spinous processes, research on the muscle’s function in…
Introduction The optic nerve is the second cranial nerve (CN II) that transmits visual information. The optic nerve has only afferent (sensory) fibres and, like all cranial nerves, is paired. During embryogenesis, the optic nerve develops in the retina, exits the orbit via the optic canal, and travels throughout the central nervous system. The optic…
Introduction The first and smallest cranial nerve is the olfactory nerve. This nerve is one of two that do not connect to the brainstem. Your olfactory nerve anatomy is part of the central nervous system. The process begins in the brain and ends in the upper nose. It is also part of your autonomic nervous…
Finger pain is a prevalent issue that is commonly caused by hand injuries such as fractures, cuts, or broken nails. It can also be a symptom of underlying medical conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and carpal tunnel syndrome. The pain in fingers can be described as a throbbing, cramp-like, or achy sensation that can affect…
