HUMAN ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY

MUSUCLAR SYSTEM
DR. MARIA ELER ISABELT. COLLANTES

Objectives:

1. Identify the structure and function of he different muscles of the human body

Lesson proper:

The muscular system is responsible for the movement, flexing and contorting of the
bodies. It can be voluntary and involuntary movement. Muscles are associated with bones,
therefore to move a bone, rather a change in direction on its synovial joints, which is responsible
for the movement of the skeleton, the skeleton muscles should be attached to the fixed part of the
skeleton. while the movable end of the muscles is pulled by the muscle’s insertion, the end of the
muscle that is attached to a fixed bone is called origin. In movement of the bones, several
muscles are needed, such as the prime mover or the agonist; this is a principal muscle involved.
There is also the synergist which is the assisting muscle or also the fixator that stabilizes the
bone that is attached to the prime mover’s origin. However, an antagonist is the opposite action
of prime mover, it plays an important role in muscle function: maintains the body or limb
position and they control the rapid movement.

1. Prime Movers
and Synergists. The biceps brachii flex the lower arm. The brachoradialis, in the forearm, and brachialis,
located deep to the biceps in the upper arm, are both synergists that aid in this motion
 AGONIST ANTAGONIST MOVEMENT
Biceps brachii: the anterior Triceps brachii: in the The biceps brachii flexes the
compartment of the arm posterior compartment of the forearm, whereas the triceps
arm brachii extends it
Hamstrings: group of three Quadriceps femoris: group of The hamstrings flex the leg,
muscles, in the posterior four muscles in the anterior whereas the quadriceps
compartment of the thigh compartment of the thigh femoris extend it
Flexor digitorum superficialis Extensosr digitorum in the The flexor digitorum
and flexor digitorum posterior compartment of the superficialis and flexor
profundus: in the anterior forearm digitorum profundus flex the
compartment of the forearm fingers and the hand at the
wrist, whereas the extensior
digitorum extends the fingers
and the hand at the wrist.
Table 1. Agonist and Antagonist Skeletal Muscle Pairs

Skeletal muscle is enclosed in connective tissue at three levels. Each fiber cells is
covered by endomysium and the entire muscle is covered by epimysium. The group of fivers is
bundled as a unit within the whole muscle by a connective tissue called perimysium, the bundled
group of muscle fibers is called a fascicle. A fascicle is an arrangement of perymysia that is
correlated to the force generated by a muscle; it also affects the range of motion of the muscle.
Based on the patterns of fascicle arrangement, skeletal muscles can be classified.

Parallel musclsed have fascicles that are arranged in the same direction. Some parallel
muscles are flat sheets that expand at the ends to make broad attachments. Other parallel
muscles are rotund with tendons at one or both ends. Muscles that seem to be plump have a
large mass of tissue located in the middle of the muscle, between the insertion and the origin,
which is known as the central body. A more common name for this muscle is belly. When a
muscle contracts, the fibers is shorten to an even larger bulge. When a parallel muscle has a
central, large belly that is spindle shaped, meaning it tapers as it extends to its origin and
insertion is called fusiform.
2. Muscle Shapes and Fiber Alignment. The skeletal muscles of the body typically come in seven different
general shapes.

Circular muscles are also called sphincters. When they relax, the sphincters’
concentrically arranged bundles of muscle fibers, increases the size of the opening, when they
contract, the size of the opening shrinks to the point of closure. The orbicularis muscle is a
circular muscle that goes around the mouth.

Other muscles of the body are named according to their shape or location. The deltoid for
instance, is a large and triangular shaped that covers the shoulder. It is named because of the
Greek letter delta looks like a triangle. The rectus abdominis (rector = straight) is a straight
muscle in the anterior wall of the abdomen, while the rectus femoris is the straight muscle in the
anterior compartment of the thigh.
 Convergent is when a muscle is expanded over a sizable area and the fascicles come to
single and common point. The attachment point for a convergent muscle could be a tendon, an
aponeurosis (a flat, broad tendon) or a raphe (very slender tendon). The large muscle on the
chest, the pectoralis major, is an example of this type of muscle.

Pennate muscles (penna = feathers) blend into tendon that runs through the central region
of the muscle for its whole length, somewhat like a quil of a feather with the muscle arranged
similar to the feathers. Because of this design, the muscle fibers in a pennate muscle can only
pull at an angle; therefore the contracting pennate muscle do not moves their tendons very far.
However, a pennate muscle can hold more muscle fibers within it, it can produce relatively more
tension for its size. There are three subtypes of pennate muscles. UNIPENNATE muscle, the
fascicles are located on one side of the tendon. The extensor digitorum of the forearm is an
example. A BIPENNATE muscle has fascicles on both sides of the tendon. A
MULTIPENNATE are muscle fibers wrapped around the tendon thus forming individual
fascicles. A common example is the deltoid muscle of the shoulder, because of these fascicles,
portion of multipennate muscle like the deltoid, can be stimulated by the nervous system to
change the direction of the pull. That is when the deltoid muscle contracts, the arm abducts but
when only the anterior fascicle is stimulated, the arm will abduct and flex.
NAMING OF THE MUSCLES

3. Major muscles

Example Word Latin Root 1 Latin Root 2 Meaning Translation

Abductor abductor Ab = away Duct = to A muscle that A muscle that
digit minimi from move moves away moves the
from little finger or
digiti Digtus = digit Refers to a toe away
finger or toe
minimi Minimus = Little
mini, tiny
Adductor adductor Ad = to, Duct = to A muscle that A muscle that
digiti minimi toward move moves moves the
towards little finger or
digiti Digitus = Refers to a toe toward
digit finger or toe
minimi Minimus = little
mini, tiny
Table 2 Muscle Name from the Latin
 Example Latin or Greek Translation Mnemonic Device
ad To, toward Advance toward your goal
ab Away from n/a
sub under SUBmarines move under
water
ductor Something that moves A conductor makes a train
movie
anti against If you are antisocial, you are
against engaging in social
activities
epi On top of n/a
apo To the side of n/a
longissimus Longest Longissimus is longer than
the word long
longus Long long
brevis Short brief
maximus Large max
medlus Medium Medius and medium both
begin with med
minimus Tiiny, little mini
rectus Straight To RECTify a situation is to
straighten it out
multi Many If something is
MULTIcolored, it has many
colors
uni One A UNIcorn has one horn
Bi/di Two If a ring is DIcast, it is made
of two metals
tri Three TRIple the amount of money
is three times as much
Quad Four QUADruplets are four
children born at one birth
externus Outside EXternal
internus Inside INternal

Naming of the muscles depends on the shape, and sizes compared to other muscles in the
area, its location in the body or the location of the attachments to the skeleton, the number of
origins or its action. The skeletal muscles anatomical location or relationship to the bone is often
determines the name. Some muscle names indicate the number of muscles in the group. Other
depending on the location of their attachment, and if this happen the origin is always named first.
Lastly, naming may depend on its action or their movement.
AXIAL MUSCLES OF THE HEAD, NECK AND BACK

Skeletal muscles are divided into axial (muscles of the trunk and head), and appendicular
(muscles of the arms and legs). The axial muscles are grouped based on location, function or
both.

Muscles of Facial Expressions

The origin of the muscles of facial expression is from the skull which is a fixed bone. The
insertions have fibers intertwined with connective tissue and the dermis of the skin. Because of
the attachment to the skin, when muscle contract the skin will move therefore creating an
expression of the face.

4. Muscles of the Facial Expression

The orbicularis oris is a circular muscle that moves the lips, and the orbicularis oculi is a
circular muscle that closes the eye. The occipitofrontalis muscle moves up the scalp and
eyebrows. The muscle has a frontal belly and an occipital belly, meaning there is a muscle on
the forehead or the frontalis and at the back of the head or the occipitalis, however there is no
muscle across the top of the head. Instead, two bellies are connected by a broad tendon called
the epicranial aponeurosis, or galea aponeurosis (galea = apple).

Buccinator muscles covers most of the face, it compresses the cheeks. This muscle allows
the action of whistling, blowing and sucking, all of these contributes to the chewing action. The
corrugator supercilii are small facial muscles that move the eyebrows.
Movement Target Target Prime mover Origin Insertion
motion
direction
Brow
Furrowing Skin of the anterior Occipitofrontali Epicraneal Underneath
brow scalp s frontal belly aponeurosis the skin of
the forehead
Unfurrowing Skin of the Posterior Occipitofrontali Occipital Epicraneal
brow scalp s occipital belly bone, aponeurosis
mastoid
process
(temporal
bone)
Lowering Skin inferior Corrugator Frontal bone Skin
eyebrows underneath supercili underneath
(scowling, the the eyebrow
frowning) eyebrows
Nose
Flaring Nasal Inferior Nasalis maxilla Nasal bone
nostrils cartilage compression,
pushes posterior
nostrils open compression
when
cartilage is
compressed
Mouth
Raising Upper lip elevation Levator labii maxilla Underneath
upper lip tissue superioris skin of the
corners of
the mouth,
orbicularis
oris
Lowering Lower lip Depression Depressor labii Mandible Underneath
lower lip inferioris the skin of
the lower lip
Opening Lower jaw Depression, Depressor Mandible Underneath
mouth and lateral angulus oris skin at the
sliding lower corners of
jaw left and the mouth
right
Smiling Corners of Lateral Zygomaticus Zygomatic Underneath
the mouth elevation major bone skin at the
corners of
the mouth
(dimple
area),
 orbicularis
oris
Shaping of Lips Multiple Orbicularis oris Tissue Underneath
lips surrounding skin at the
the lips corners of
the moth
Lateral Cheeks Lateral Buccinator Maxilla, Orbicularis
movement of mandible, oris
cheeks sphenoid
bone
Pursing of Corners of Lateral Risorius Fascia of the Underneath
lips by the mouth parotid skin at the
straightening gland corners of
them the mouth
laterally
Protrusion of Lower lip Protraction Mentalis Mandible Underneath
lower lip and the skin skin of the
of the skin skin

Raising Upper lip Elevation Levator labii maxilla Underneath

upper lip superioris skin at the
corners of
the mouth,
orbicularis
oris
Table 3 Muscles in Facial Expression

Muscles of the Eyes

Extrinsic eye muscle controls the movement of the eyeball, this muscle originate outside
the eye and insert into the outer surface of the white of the eye. These are located inside the eye
socket.
5 Muscle of the Eye

Movement Target Target Prime Origin Insertion

motion mover
direction
Moves eyes Eyeballs Superior Superior Common Superior
up and (elevates), rectus tendinous surface of
toward nose, medial ring (ring eyeball
rotates eyes (adducts) attaches to
from 1:00 to optic
3:00 foramen)
Moves eyes Eyeballs Inferior Inferior Common Inferior
down and (depresses), rectus tendinous surface of
toward nose, medial rind (ring eyeball
rotates eyes (adducts) attaches to
from 6:00 to optic
3:00 foramen)
Moves eyes Eyeballs Lateral Lateral rectus Common Lateral
away from (abducts) tendinous surface of
nose ring (ring eyeball
attaches to
optic
foramen)
Moves eyes Eyeballs Medial Medial rectus Common Medial
towards nose (adducts) tendinous surface of
ring (ring eyeball
attaches to
optic
foramen)
Moves eyes Eyeballs Superior Inferior Floor of orbit Surface of
up and away (elevates), oblique (maxilla) eyeball
 from nose, lateral between
rotates (abducts) inferior rectus
eyeball from and lateral
12:00 to 9:00 rectus
Moves eyes Eyeballs Superior Superior Sphenoid Surface of
down and (elevates), oblique bone eyeball
away from lateral between
nose, rotates (abducts) superior rectus
eyeball from and lateral
6:00 to 9:00 rectus
Opens eyes Upper eyelid Superior Levator Roof of orbit Surface of
(elevates) palpabrae (sphenoid eyeball
superioris bone) between
superior rectus
and lateral
rectus
Closes Eyelid skin Compression Orbicularis Medial bones Circumference
eyelids along oculi composing of orbit
superior – the orbit
inferior axis
Table 4 Muscle of the Eyes

Muscles that move the Lower Jaw

Mastication is the anatomical terminology for chewing. Muscles involved in this action
exert pressure to bite and chew food before it is swallowed. The maseter muscle is the main
muscle used because it elevates the mandible to close the mouth and assisted by temporalis
muscle which retracts the mandibular.

6 Muscle of Mastication
 Movement Target Target motion Prime mover Origin Insertion
direction

Closes mouth, mandible Superior Masseter Maxilla arch, Mandible

aids in (elevates) zygomatic
chewing arch (master)

Closes mouth, Mandible Superior Temporalis Temporal Mandible

pulls lower (elevates), bone
jaw in under posterior
upper jaw (retracts)

Open mouth, mandible Inferior Lateral Pterygoid Mandible

pushes lo9wer (depresses), pterygoid process of
jaw out under posterior sphenoid bone
upper jaw, (protracts),
moves lower lateral
jaw side to (abducts),
side medial
(adducts)
Closes mouth, Mandible Superior Medial Sphenoid Mandible,
pushes lower (elevates), pterygoid bone, maxilla temporomandibular
jaw out under posterior joint
upper jaw, (protracts),
moves lower lateral
jaw side to (abducts),
side medial
(adducts)
Table 5 Muscle of Mastication

Masseter and temporalis muscles are mainly responsible for chewing and breaking food
into digestible pieces, the medial pterygoid and lateral pterygoid muscles provide assistance in
chewing and moving food within the mouth.

Muscle that Move the Tongue

Primary function of tongue is for taste, it is also important in mastication, deglutition or

swallowing, and speech. It is so movable, that it facilitates complex speech patterns and sounds.
7 Muscle of the Tongue

Movement Target Target Prime mover Origin Insertion

motion
direction
Tongue
Moves the Tongue Inferior Genioglossus Mandible Tongue
tongue down, (depresses), undersurface,
sticks town, anterior hyoid bone
out of the (protracts)
mouth
Moves tongue Tongue Superior Styloglossus Temporal Tongue
up, retracts (elevates), bone undersurface
the tongue posterior (styloid and sides
back into the (retracts) process)
mouth
Flattens Tongue Inferior Hyoglossus Hyoid bone Sides of
tongue (depresses) tongue

Bulges tongue Tongue Superior Palatoglossus Soft palate Side of tongue

(elevation)

Swallowing and speaking

Raises the Hyoid Superior Digastric Mandible, Hyoid bone
hyoid bone in bone, (elevates) temporal
a way that larynx bone
also raises the
larynx,
allowing the
epiglottis to
cover the
glottis during
deglutition,
also assists in
opening the
mouth by
depressing the
mandible
Raises and Hyoid bone Superior Stylohyoid Temporal Hyoid bone
retracts the (elevates), bone
hyoid bone in posterior (styloid
a way that (retracts) process)
elongates the
oral cavity
during
deglutition
Raises the Hyoid bone Superior Mylohyoid Mandible Hyoid bone,
hyoid bone in (elevates) median raphe
a way that
presses the
tongue against
the roof of the
mouth,
pushing food
back into the
pharynx
during
deglutition
Raises and Hyoid bone Superior Geniohyoid Mandible Hyoid bone
moves the (elevates),
hyoid bone anterior
forward, (protracts)
widening the
pharynx
during
deglutition
Retracts the Hyoid bone Inferior Omohyoid Scapula Hyoid bone
hyoid bone (depresses),
and moves it posterior
down during (retracts)
later phases of
deglutition
Depresses the Hyoid bone Inferior Sternohyoid Clavicle Hyoid bone
hyoid bone (depresses)
during
swallowing
and speaking
Shrinks Hyoid Hyoid bone, Thyrohyoid Thyroid Hyoid bone
distance bone, inferior cartilage
 between thyroid (depresses),
thyroid cartilage thyroid
cartilage and cartilage,
the hyoid superior
bone, (elevates)
allowing
production of
high pitch
vocalizations
Depresses Larynx, Inferior Sternothyroid Sternum Thyroid
larynx, thyroid (depresses) cartilage
thyroid cartilage,
cartilage, and hyoid bone
hyoid bone to
create
different vocal
tones
Rotates and Skull, Individually, Sternocleidomastoid, Sternum, Temporal
tilts head to cervical medial semispinalis capitis clavicle bone (mastoid
the side and vertebrae rotation, process),
forward lateral occipital bone
flexion,
bilaterally,
anterior
(flexes)
Rotates and Skull, Individually, Splenius capitis, Sternum, Temporal
tilts the head cervical (flexes) longissimus capitis clavivle bone (mastoid
to the side and vertebrae process),
backwards occipital bone
lateral
rotation,
lateral flexion,
bilaterally,
anterior

Tongue muscles can be extrinsic or intrinsic. Extrinsic tongue muscles insert into the
tongue from outside origins, and the intrinsic tongue muscles insert into the tongue from origins
within it. The extrinsic muscles move the whole tongue in different directions, whereas the
intrinsic muscles allow the tongue to change its shape (such as curling the tongue in a loop or
flattening it).

The extrinsic muscles all include the word root glossus means tongue, and the muscle
names are from the origins. The genioglossus (genio means chin) originates on the mandible and
allows the tongue to move downward and forward. The styloglossus originates on the styloid
bone, and allows upward and backward motion. The palatoglossus originates on the soft palate
to elevate the back of the tongue, and the hyoglossus originates on the hyoid bone to move the
tongue downward and flatten it.
 During administration of anesthesia, in cases of surgical procedures, the body is put on
hold so it can be available for surgery. A control of respiration should be under the care of the
anesthesiologist. Therefore, certain drugs are administered as an anesthetic solution to relax the
body muscles. Tongue is affected during administration of anesthetic solution to the body. It
relaxes or blocks the airway so that the muscle of respiration may not move the diaphragm or
chest wall. This is to avoid possible complications. After the surgical procedure, patient remain
unconscious to remove the tube and roughly after 30 minutes the patient wakes up and regain
control of the respiration.

Muscles of the Anterior Neck

The muscles of the anterior neck assist in swallowing and speech by controlling the
positions of the larynx, and the hyoid bone. A hyoid bone is a horseshoe - shaped bone that is the
solid foundation on which tongue can move. The muscles of the neck are categorized according
to their position in relation to the hyoid bone. Suprahyoid muscles are superior to it and the
infrahyoid muscles are located inferiorly.

8 Muscle of the Anterior Neck

The suprahyoid muscle raises the hyoid bone, the floor of the mouth and the larynx
during deglutition. Digastric muscle has the same action, which has anterior and posterior bellies
that elevates the hyoid bone and larynx during swallowing. It also depresses the mandible. The
stylohyoid muscle moves the hyoid bone posteriorly, hence elevating the larynx. The mylohyoid
muscles lift it and help press the tongue on the top of the mouth. The geniohyoid depresses the
mandible and it move the hyoid bone anteriorly through pulling by raising the muscle.

The stap like infrahyoid muscles generally depresses the hyoid bone and control the
position of the larynx. The omohyoid muscle, which has superior and inferior bellies, depresses
the hyoid bone in conjunction with the sternohyoid and thryohyoid muscles. The thyrohyoid
muscle also elevates the larynx thyroid cartilage, and the sternothyroid depresses it to create
different tones of voice.

Muscles that move the Head

The heat, attached to the top of the vertebral column, is balanced, moved and rotated by
neck muscles. When these muscles act unilaterally the head rotates. When they contract
bilaterally the head flexes or extends. The major muscle that laterally flexes and rotates the head
is the sternocleidomastoid. Both muscles working together are the flexors of the head.

9 Posterior and Anterior views of the Neck

Movement Target Target Prime mover Origin Insertion

motion
direction
Rotates and Skull, Individually: sternocleidomastoid Sternum Temporal
tilts head to vertebrae rotates head clavicle bone
the side, tilts to opposite (mastoid
head side process)
forward Bilaterally: Occipital
flexion bone
Rotates and Skull Individually: Semispinalis capitis Transverse Occipital
tilts head vertebrae laterally and articular bone
backward flexes and processes of
rotates head cervical and
to same side thoracic
Bilaterally: vertebra
extension
 Rotates and Skull Individuality: Splenius capitis Spinous Temporal
tilts head to vertebrae laterally processes of bone
the side flexes and cervical and (mastoid
Tilts head rotates head thoracic process)
backwards to same side vertabrae Occipital
Bilaterally: bone
extension
Rotates and Skull Individually: Longissimus capitis Transverse Temporal
tilts head to Vertebrae laterally and articular bone
the sole flexes and processes of (mastoid
Tilts head rotates head cervical and process)
backward to same side thoracic
Bilaterally: vertebrae
extension
Table 6 Muscles That Move the Head

Muscles of the Posterior Neck and the Back

Extension movement of the head is the primary function of the posterior muscles of the
neck. The back muscles stabilize and move the vertebral column, and are grouped according to
the lengths and direction of the fascicles.

The splenius muscles originate at the midline and run laterally and superiorly to their
insertion. From the sides and the back of the neck, the splenius capitis inserts onto the head
region, and the splenius cervicis extends onto the cervical region. These muscles can extend the
head, laterally flex it, and rotate.
 10 Muscles of the
Neck and Back

The erector spinae group forms the muscle mass of he back and the primary extensor of
the vertebral column. It controls flexion, lateral flexion, and rotation of the vertebral column,
and maintains the lumbar curve. The erecter spinae comprises the iliocostalis group, the
longissimus group, and the spinalis group.

The iliocastilis group includes the iliocosalis cervicis, associated with the cervical region:
the iliocostalis thoracis, associated with the thoracic region, and the iliocostalis lumborum
associated with the lumbar region. The three muscles of the longissimus group are the
longissimus capitis with the head region, the longissimus crevicis with the cervical region, and
longissimus thoracis with the thoracic region. The third group the spinalis group, comprises the
spinalis capitis (head region), the spinalis cervicis (cervical region) and the spinalis thoracis
(thoracic region)

The transversospinalis muscles run from the transverse processes to the spinous processes
of the vertebrae. Similar to the erector spinae muscles, the semispinalis muscles in this group are
named for the areas of the body that they are associated with. The semispinalis muscles include
the semispinalis capitis, the semispinalis cervicis, and the semispinalis thoracis. The multifudus
muscle of the lumber region helps extend and laterally flex the vertebral column.

The segmental muscle group is important in stabilizing the vertebral column including
the interspinales and intertransversarii muscles. These muscles bring together the spinous and
transverse processes of each consecutive vertebra. Lastly the scalene muscles work together to
flex, laterally flex and rotate the head. They also contribute the deep inhalation. The scalene
muscles include the anterior scalene muscles (anterior to the middle scalene), the middle scalene
muscle (longest, intermediate between the anterior and posterior scalenes), and the posterior
scalene muscle (smallest, posterior to the middle scalene).

AXIAL MUSCLES OF THE ABDOMINAL WALL AND THORAX

The muscles of the vertebral column, thorax and abdominal wall extend, flex and
stabilize different parts of the body trunk. The deep muscles help maintain posture. Remember if
one group of these muscles fails to function; the body posture will be compromised.

Muscle of the Abdomen

The anterior and lateral abdominal region that meets at the anterior midline is covered by
the four pairs of abdominal muscles. These muscles of the anterolateral abdominal wall can be
divided into four groups: the exernal obliques, the inernal obliques, the transversus abdominis,
and the rectus abdominis.
11 Muscles of the Abdomen

12 Muscles of the abdomen

 Movement Target Target Prime mover Origin Insertion
motion
direction
Twisting at Vertebral Supination External Ribs 5-12 Ribs 7-10
waist, also column Lateral obliques Ilium Linea alba
bending to flexion Internal Ilium
the side obliques
Squeezing Abdominal Compression Transversus Ilium Sternum
abdomen cavity abdominus Ribs 5-10 Linea alba
during Pubis
forceful
exhalations,
defecation,
urination and
childbirth
Sitting up Vertebral Flexion Rectus Pubis Sternum
column abdominis Ribs 5 and 7
Bending to Vertebral Lateral Quadratus Ilium Rib 12
the side column flexion lumborum Ribs 5-10 Vertebrae
L1-L4
Table 7 Muscles of the abdomen

There are three flat skeletal muscles in the antero lateral wall of the abdomen. The
external oblique which is closest to the surface, extend inferiorly and medially in the direction of
sliding one’s four fingers into pants pockets. Perpendicular to its is he intermediate internal
oblique, extending superiorly and medially, the direction the thumbs usually go when the other
fingers are in the pants pocket. The deep muscle, the transversus abdominis, is arranged
transversely around the abdomen, similar to the front of a belt on a pair of pants. This
arrangement of three bands of muscles in different orientations allows various movements and
rotations of the trunk. The three layers of muscles also help to protect the internal abdominal
organs in an area where there is no bone.

The linea alba is a whie, fibrous band tha is made of the bilateral rectus sheaths hat join at
the anterior midline of the body. These enclose the rectus abdominis muscles (a pair of long,
linear muscles, commonly called the sit up muscles) that originate at the public crest and
symphysis, and extend the length of the body’s trunk. Each muscle is segmented by three
transverse bands of collagen fibers called the tendinous intersections. This results in the look of
six pack abs, as each segment hypertrophies on individuals at the gym who do many sit ups.

The posterior abdominal wall is formed by lumbar vertebrae, parts of the ilia of the hip
bones, psoas major and iliacus muscles and quadratus lumborum muscles. This plays the key role
in stabilizing the rest of the body and maintaining posture.
Muscles of the Thorax

The muscles of the chest serve to facilitate breathing by changing the size of the thoracic
cavity. In inhaling the chest rises because of the cavity expands. During exhale the chest falls
because the thoracic cavity decreases in size.

Movement Target Target Prime mover Origin Insertion

motion
direction
Inhalation Thoracic Compression Diaphragm Sternum Central
Exhalation cavity Expansion Ribs 6-12 tendon
Lumbar
vertebrae
Inhalation ribs Elevation External Rib superior Rib inferior
Exhalation (expands intercostals to each to each
thoracic Intercostal muscle
cavity) muscle
Forced Ribs Movement Internal Rib inferior Rib superior
exhalation along intercostalis to each to each
superior or intercostal intercostal
inferior axis muscle muscle
to bring ribs
closer
together
Table 8 Muscles of the Thorax

The Diaphragm

The diaphragm is responsible for the change of volume of the thoracic cavity during
breathing due to alternating contractions and relaxation of the muscle. IT separates the thoracic
and abdominal cavities and it is a dome shaped at rest. The superior surface of the diaphragm is
convex, creating the elevated floor of the thoracic cavity. The inferior surface is concave,
creating the curved roof of the abdominal cavity.
13 Muscles of the diaphragm

A Valsalva maneuver is the work of the diaphragm and the abdominal muscles together,
this happens during defecating, urination and childbirth. When the abdominal muscle contracts ,
the pressure cannot push the diaphragm up, it will increase the pressure on the intestinal tract
(defecation), urinary tract (urination) or reproductive tract (childbirth).

The inferior surface of the pericardial sac and the inferior surfaces of the pleural
membranes (parietal pleura) fuse onto the central tendon of the diaphragm. To the sides of the
tendon are the skeletal muscle portions of the diaphragm, which insert into the tendon while
having a number of origins including the xiphoid process of the sternum anteriorly, inferior six
ribs and their cartilages laterally and the lumbar vertebrae and 12th ribs posteriorly.

The diaphragm also includes three openings for the passage of structures between the
thorax and the abdomen. The inferior vena cava passes the caval opening, and the esophagus
and attached nerves pass through the esophageal hiatus. The aorta, thoracic duct, and azygous
vein pass through hiatus of the posterior diaphragm.

The Intercostal Muscles

Intercostal muscles are three sets of muscles which is located to intercostal spaces. The
action of these muscles is to assist in breathing by changing the dimension of the rib cage.
14 The Intercostal muscle

The eleven pairs of superficial external intercostal muscles aid in inspiration of air during
breathing because when they contract, they raise the rib cage. The innermost intercostal muscles
are the deepest and they act as synergists for the action of the internal intercostalis.

Muscles of the Pelvic and Perineum

The pelvic floor is a muscular sheet that defines the inferior portion of the pelvic cavity.
The pelvic diaphragm, spanning anteriorly to posteriorly from the pubis to the coccyx, comprises
the levator ani and the ischiociccygeus. Its openings include the anal canal and urethra, and the
vagina in women.

The large levator ani consists of two skeletal muscles, the pubococcygeus and the
iliococcygeus. The levator ani is considered the most important muscle of the pelvic floor
because it supports the pelvic viscera. It resists the pressure produced by contraction of the
abdominal muscles so that the pressure is applied to the colon to aid in defecation and to the
uterus to aid in childbirth. This muscle also creates skeletal muscle sphincters at the urethra and
anus.
15 Muscles of the Pelvic Floor.

The perineum is the diamond shaped space between the pubic symphysis (anteriorly), the
coccyx (posteriorly), and the ischial tuberosities (laterally), lying just inferior to the pelvic
diaphragm (levator ani and coccygeus). Divided transversely into triangles, he anterior is the
urogenital triangle, which includes the external genitals. The posterior is the anal triangle, which
contains the anus. The perineum is also divided into superficial and deep layers with some of the
muscles common to men and women. Women also have the compressor urethrae and the
sphincter urethrovaginalis, which function to close the vagina. In men, there is the deep
transverse perineal muscle that plays a role in ejaculation.
16 Muscle of the perineum

Movement Target Target Prime mover Origin Insertion

motion
direction
Defecation Abdominal Superior Levator and Pubis Urethra
Urination cavity (resists pubococcygeus Ischium Anal canal
Birth pressure Elevator ani Perineal
Coughing during iliococcygeus body
abdominal Coccyx
compression)
Superficial muscles
None – Perineal Non Superficial Ischium Perineal
supports body transverse body
perineal perineal
body
maintain
anus at
center of
perineum
Involuntary Urethra Compression Bulbosphongiosus Perineal body Perineal
response membrane
that Corpus
compresses spongiosum
 urethra of penis
when Deep fascia
excreting of penis
urine in Clitoris in
both sexes female
or while
ejaculating
in males
Also aids in
erection of
penis in
males
Compresses Veins of Compression Ischiocavernosus Ischium Pubic
veins to penis and Ischial rami symphisis
maintain clitoris Pubic rami Corpus
erection of cavernosum
penis in of penis in
males male
Erection of Clitoris of
clitoris in female
females
Deep muscles
Voluntarily Urethra Compression External urethral Ischial rami Male
compresses sphincter Public rami Median
urethra raphe
during Female
urination vaginal wall
Closer anus Anus Sphincter External anal Anococcygeal Perineal
sphincter ligament body
Table 9 Muscles of the Perineum Common to Men and Women

MUSCLES OF THE PECTORAL GIRDLE AND UPPER LIMBS

Muscle of the shoulder and upper limb is divided into four groups: muscles that stabilize
and position the pectoral girdle, muscles that move the arm, muscles that move the forearm, and
muscles that move the wrists, hands and fingers. The pectoral girdle or shoulder girdle, consists
of the lateral ends of the clavicle and scapula, along with the proximal end of the humerus, and
the muscles covering these three bones to stabilize the shoulder joint. The girdle creates a base
from which he head of the humerus, in its ball and socket joint with the glenoid fossa of the
scapula, can move the arm in multiple directions.

Muscles that Position the Pectoral Girdle

 The muscles of the pectoral girdle are located on the anterior thorax and on the posterior
thorax.

17 Muscles That Position the Pectoral Girdle

The anterior muscles include subclavius, pectoralis minor and serratus anterior. The
posterior muscles include the trapezius, rhomboid major, and rhomboid minor. Pulling the
shoulder and upper limb posteriorly happens when the scapula move, this is the action of the
rhomboids when contracted.

Position in Movement Target Target Prime Origin Insertion

the motion mover
Thorax direction
Anterior Stabilizes Clavicle Depression Subclavius First rib Inferior
thorax clavicle surface of
during clavicle
movement
by
depressing
it
Anterior Rotates Scapula Scapula: Pectorailis Anterior Coracoid
thorax shoulder Ribs Depresses ninor surfaces of process of
anteriorly Ribs: certain ribs scapula
(throwing Elevates (2-4 or 3-
motion) 5)
Assists
with
inhalation
Anterior Moves arm Scapula Scapula: Serratus Muscles Anterior
thorax from side Ribs Protracts anterior slips from surface of
of body to Ribs: certain ribs vertebral
 front of elevates (1-8 or 1- border of
body 9) scapula
Assists
with
inhalation
Posterior Elevates Scapula Scapula: Trapezius Skull Acromion
thorax shoulders Cervical rotates Vertebral and spine
(shrugging) spine inferiorly, column of scapula
Pulls retracts, Clavicle
shoulder elevates,
blades and
together depresses
Tilts head Spine:
backwards extends

Posterior Stabilizes Scapula Retracts: Rhomboid Thoracic Medial

thorax scapula rotates major vertebrae border of
during inferiorly (T2-T5) scapula
pectoral
girdle
movement
Posterior Stabilizes Scapula Retracts: Rhomboid Cervical Medial
thorax scapula rotates minor and border of
during inferiorly thoracic scapula
pectoral vertebrae
movement (C7 and
T1)
Table 10Muscles that Position the Pectoral Girdle

Muscles that move the Humerus

Muscles that cross the shoulder joint and move the humerus bone of the arm include both
the axial and scapular muscles.
18Muscles That Move the Humerus.

The two axial muscles are the pectoralis major and the latissimus dorsi. The pectoralis
major is thick and fan shaped, covering much of the superior portion of the anterior thorax. The
broad, triangular latissimus dorsi is located on the inferior part of the back, where it inserts into
thick connective tissue shealth called aponeurosis.

Movement Target Target Prime mover Origin Insertion

motion
direction
Axial
muscles
Brings elbow Humerus Flexion Pectoralis Clavicle Greater
together Adduction major Sternum tubercle of
Moves elbow Medial Cartilage of humerus
up (as during Rotation ribs (1-6 or 1-
an uppercut 7)
punch) Aponeurosis
of external
oblique
muscle
Moves elbow Humerus Humerus: Latissimus Thoracic Intertubercular
back (as in Scapula extension, dorsi vertebrae sulcus of
elbowing adduction (T7-T12) humerus
someone and medial Lumbar
standing roation vertebrae
behind you) Scaupla: Lower ribs
Spreads depression *9-12)
elbow apart Iliac crest
Scapular
muscles
Lifts arms at Humerus Abduction Deltoid Trapexius Nasal bone
the shoulder Flexion Clavicle
Extension Acromion
 Medial and Spine of
lateral scapula
roation
Assists the Humerus Medial Subscapularis Subscapular Lesser
pectoralis rotation fossa of the tubercle of
major in scapula humerus
bringing the
elbows
together and
stabilizes the
shoulder joint
during
movement of
the pectoral
girdle
Rotates the Humerus Abduction Supraspinatus Supraspinous Greater
elbow fossa of the tubercle of
outwards, as scapula humerus
during a
tennis swing
Rotates the Humerus Extension Infraspinatus Infraspinous Greater
elbows Adduction fossa of the tubercle of
outwards as scapula humerus
during tennis
swing
Assists the Humerus Extension Teres major Posterior Intertubercular
infraspinatus Adduction surface of the sulcus of
in rotating scapula humerus
the elbow
outwards
Asissts the Humerus Extension Teres minor Lateral Greater
infraspinatus adduction border of the tubercle of
in rotating dorsal humerus
the elbow scapular
outwards surface
Moves te Humerus Flexion Coracobra Coracoid Medial
elbow up and Adduction chialis process of the surface of
across the scapula humerus shaft
body, as
when putting
a hand on the
chest
Table 11 Muscles That Move the Humerus

The rest of the shoulder muscles originate on the scapula. The anatomical and ligamental
structure of the shoulder joint and the arrangement of the muscles covering it, allows the arm to
carry out different types of movements. The deltoid is a thick muscles that creates round lines of
the shoulder and is the major abductor of the arm, action includes flexing and medial rotation as
well as extension and lateral rotation. The subscapularis origin is the anterior scapula and it
medialy rotates he arm. Thus names after its location, the suprasinatus (superior to the spine of
the scapula) and the infraspinatus (inferior to the spine of the scapula) abducts the arm, and
laterally rotate the arm, respectively. The thick and flat teres major is inferior to teres minor and
extends the arm, and assists in adduction and medial rotation of it. The long teres minor laterally
rotates and extends the arm. Lastly the coracobrachialis flexes and adducts the arm.

Muscles that move the Forearm

The forearm, has four main type of action at the hinge of the elbow joint: flexion,
extension, pronation and supination. The flexor muscles are the biceps brachii, brachialis and
brachioradialis. Extensors are the triceps braachii and anconeus. The pronators are the pronator
teres and the pronator quadratus. The supinator is the only one that turns the forearm anteriorly.
When the forearm faces anteriorly, it is supinated. When the forearm faces posteriorly, it is
pronated.

The biceps brachii, brachialis and branchioradialis flex the forearm. The two headed
biceps brachii crosses the shoulder and elbow joints to flex the forearm, also taking part in
supinating the forearm at the radioulnar joints and flexing the arm at the shoulder joint. Deep to
the biceps brachii, the brachialis provides additional power in flexing the forearm. Finally the
brachioradialis can flex the arm quickly or help lift a load slowly. These muscles and their
associated blood vessels and nerves are from the anterior compartment of the arm.
 19
Muscles That Move the Forearm

Movement Target Target Prime mover Origin Insertion

motion
direction
Anterior muscles (flexion)
Performs a Forearm Flexion Bifceps brachii Coracoid Radial
bicep curl Supination process tuberosity
Allows palm Tubercle
of hand to above glenoid
point toward cavity
body while Forearm Flexion Bracialis Front of distal Coronoid
flexing humerus process of
ulna
Assists and Forearm Flexion Brachioradialis Lateral Base of
stabilizes supracondylar styloid
elbow during ridge at distal process of
bicep curl end of radius
motion humerus
Posterior muscles (extension)
Extends Forearm Extension Triceps brachii Infraglenoid Olecranon
forearm as tubercle of process of
during a scapula ulna
punch Posterior
shaft of
humerus
Posterior
humeral shaft
distal to radial
groove
Assists in Forearm Extension Anconeus Lateral Lateral
extending Abduction epicondyle of aspect of
forearm humerus olecranon
Allows process of
forearm to ulna
extend away
from body
Anterior muscles (pronation)
Turns hand Forearm Pronation Pronator teres Medial Lateral
palm down epicondyle of radius
humerus
Coronoid
process of
ulna
Assiss in Forearm Pronation Pronator Distal portion Distal
turning hand quadratus of anterior surface of
palm down ulnar shaft anterior
radius
Posterior muscles (supination)
Turns hand Forearm Supination Supinator Lateral Proximal end
palm up epicondyle of of radius
 humerus
Proximal ulna
Table 12 Muscles That Move the Forearm

Muscle that moves the Wrist, Hand and Fingers

The muscles of the anterior flexor compartment of the forearm, originates from the
humerus and insert into different parts of the hands. The superficial anterior compartment of the
forearm includes the flexor carpi radialis, palmaris longus, flexor carpi ulnaris and flexor
digitorum superficialis, The flexor digitorum superficialis flexes the hands and the digits of the
knuckles, it allows the rapid movement of fingers. The deeper anterior compartment produces
flexion and bends fingers to make a fist. These are the flexor pollicis longus and the flexor
digitorum profundus. The muscles in the superficial posterior compartment of the forearm
originate on the humerus. They are the extensor radialis longus, extensor carpi radialis brevis,
extensor digitorum, extensor digiti minimi, and the extensor carpi ulnaris. The muscles of the
deep posterior compartment of the forearm originate on the radius and ulna. These are the
abductor pollicis longus, extensor pollicis brevis, extensor pollicis longus and extensor indicis.

Movement Target Target Prime mover Origin Insertion

motion
direction
Superficial anterior compartment of forearm
Blends the Wrist Flexion Flexor carpi Medial Base of
wrists toward Hand Abduction radialis epicondyle of second and
the body the humerus third
It also tilts metacarpals
the hand to
the side away
from the
body
Assist in Wrist Flexion Palmaris Medial Palmar
bending the longus epicondyle of apneurosis
hand up the humerus Skin and
toward fascia of
shoulder palm
Assists in Wrist Flexion Flexor carpi Medial Pisiform
bending the hand Abduction ulnaris epicondyle of Hamate bone
hand up the humerus, Base of 5th
toward the the olecranon metacarpal
shoulder process, and
Also tilts the the posterior
hand to the surface of the
side away Ulna
from the
body and
stabilizes the
wrist
Bends the Wrist Flexion Flexor Medial Middle
fingers to Fingers 2-5 digitorum epicondyle of phalanges of
make a list superficialis the humerus fingers 2-5
Coronoid
process of the
ulna
Shaft of the
radius
Deep anterior compartment of forearm
Bends the tip Thumb Flexion Flexor policis Anterior Distal
of the thumb longus surface of the phalanx of
radius and the thumb
interosseous
membrane
Bends the Wrist Flexion Flexor Coronoid Distal
fingers to Fingers digitorum process, phallanges of
make a fis, profundus Anteromedial fingers 2-5
Bends the surface of the
wrist toward ulna
the body Interosseous
membrane
Superficial posterior compartment of forearm
Straightens Wrist Extension Extensor Lateral Base of
the wrist Abduction radialis supracondylar second
away from longus ridge of the metacarpal
body humerus
Tilts the hand
to the side
away from
the body
Assists the Wrist Extension Extensor Lateral Base of third
extensor Abduction carpi radialis epicondyle of metacarpal
radialis brevis the humerus
longus in
extending
and
abducting the
wrist
Also
stabilizes the
hand during
finger flexion
Opens the Wrist Extension Extensor Lateral Extensor
fingers and Fingers Abduction digitorum epicondyle of expansions
move them the humerus Distal
sideways phalanges of
away from fingers
the body
Extends the Little finger extension Extensor Lateral Extensor
little finger digiti minimi epicondyle of expansion
the humerus Distal
phalanx of
finger 5
Straightens Wrist Extension Extensor Lateral Base of fifth
the wrist Abduction carpi ulnaris epicondyle of metacarpal
away from the humerus
the body and the
Also tilts the posterior of
hand to the the ulna
side toward
the body
Deep posterior compartment of forearm
Moves the Wrist Thumb: Abductor Posterior Base of first
thumb Thumb abduction policis longus surface of the metacarpal
sideways Extension radius and Trapexium
toward the Wrist: ulna and in
body abduction the
Extends the interosseous
thumb and membrane
moves the
hand
sideways
toward the
body
Extends the Thumb extension Extensor Dorsal shaft Base of
thumb policis brevis of the radius proximal
and ulna phalanx of
The thumb
interosseous
membrane
Thumb Extension Extensor Dorsal shaft Base of distal
policis longus of the radius phalanx of
and ulna and thumb
Interosseous
membrane
Extends the Wrist Extension Extensor Posterior Tendon of
index finger Index finger indicis surface of the extensor
Also distal ulna digitorum of
straightens Interosseous finger
the wrist membrane
 away from
the body
Table 13 Muscles That Move the Wrist, Hands, and Forearm

Intrinsic muscles of the Hand

The intrinsic muscles of the hand both originate and insert within. These muscles allow
the fingers to make precise movements for actions. These muscles are divided into three groups.
The thenar muscles are on the radial aspect of the palm. The hypothenar muscles are on the
medial aspect of the palm, and the intermediate muscles are midpalmar.

20 Intrinsic Muscles of the Hand

The thenar muscles include the abductor pollicis brevis, opponens pollicis, flexor pollicis
brevis and the adductor pollicis. These muscles form the thenar eminence, the rounded contour
of the base of the thumb, and all act on the thumb. The movements of the thumb play an integral
role in most precise movements of the hand.

The hypothenar muscles include the abductor digiti minimi, flexor digit minimi brevis,
and the opponens digit minimi. These muscles from the hypothenar eminence, the rounded
contour of the little finger, they all act on the little finger. Finally the intermediate muscles act
on all the fingers and include the lumbrical, the palmar interossei and the dorsal interossei.

Muscle Movement Targe Target Prime Origin Insertion

t motion mover
direction
Thenar Moves thumb Thum Abductio Abductor Flexor Lateral
muscle toward body b n pollicis retinaculu base of
brevis m proximal
Nearby phalanx of
carpals thumb
Moves thumb Oppositio Opponens Flexor Anterior
across palm toward n policis retinaculu of first
body m metacarpa
Trapezium l
Flexes thumb Flexion Flexor Flexor Lateral
policis retinaculu base of
brevis m proximal
Trapezium phalanx of
thumb
Moves thumb away Adductio Adductor Capitate Medial
from body n policis bone base of
Bases of proximal
metacarpal phalanx of
s 2-4 thumb
Front of
metacarpal
Hypothenar Moves little finger Little Abductio Abductor Pisiform Medial
muscles toward body finger n digiti bone side of
minimi proximal
Flexes little finger Flexion Flexor Hamate phalanx of
digiti bone little
minimi Flexor finger
brevis retinaculu
m
Moves little finger Oppositio Opponens
across palm to n digiti
touch thumb minimi
Intermediat Flexes each finger Finger Flexion Lumbrical Palm Fingers 2-
e muscles at metacarpo s s (lateral 5 (lateral
phalangeal joints sides of edges of
Extends each finer tendons in extension
at interphalangeal flexor al
joint digitorum expansion
profundus) s on first
 phalanges
)

Adducts and flexes Adductio Palmar Side of Extensor

each finger at n interossei each ecpansion
metacarpophalange Flexion metacarpal on first
al joints Extesnion that faces phalanx of
Extends each finger metacarpal each
at interphalangeal 3 (absent finger
joints from (except
metacarpal finger 3)
3) on side
facing
finger 3
Abducts and flexes Abductio Dorsal Sides of Both sides
the three middle n interossei metacarpal of finer 3
fingers at Flexion s For each
metacarpo Extension other
phalangeal joints finger
Extends the three Extensor
middle fingeat expansion
interphalangeal over first
joints phalanx
on side
opposite
finger 3
Table 14 Muscles That Move the Wrist, Hands, and Forearm

APPENDICULAR MUSCLES OF THE PELVIC GIRDLE AND LOWER LIMBS

The appendicular muscles of the lower body position and stabilize the pelvic girdle,
which serves as a foundation for the lower limbs. Pectoral girdle has more movement than the
pelvic girdle. Pelvic girdle’s limited movement is due to the connection with the sacrum at the
base of the axial skeleton, and the function of is to stabilize and support the body.

Muscle of the Thigh

Legs muscle have limited movement and versatility, however, due to their size and
power, they can facilitate the body stabilization, posture and movement.

Gluteal Regional Muscles that move the Femur

Most muscles that insert on the femur and move it originate on the pelvic girdle. The
psoas major and iliacus comprises the iliopsoas group. Some of the largest and most powerful
muscles in the body are the gluteal muscles or gluteal group. The gluteus maximus is the largest,
gluteus medius is deep to the gluteus maximus. gluteus minimus is deep to the gluteus mainimus
which is the smallest of the trio.
21Hip and Thigh Muscles.

Movement Target motion Prime mover Origin Insertion

direction
Iliopsoas group
Raises the knee Thigh: flexion Psoas major Lumbar Lesser trochanter
at the hip, as if and rotation vertebrae (L1 – femur
performing a Torso: flexion L5)
knee attack: Thoracic
Assists the vertebra (T12)
lateral rotators in
twisting the
thigh (lower leg)
outward,
Assists with
bending over
and maintaining
posture
Raises the knee Thigh: flexion Iliacus Iliac fossa Lesser trochanter
at the hip and lateral Iliac crest of femur
Assists the rotation Lateral sacrum
lateral rotators in Torso: flexion
twisting the
thigh (and lower
leg) outward
Assists with
bending over
and maintaining
posture
Gluteal group
Lowers the knee Extension Gluteous Dorsal ilum Gluteal
and moves the maximus Sacrum tuberosity of
thigh back coccyx femur
Iliotibial tract
Opens the thigh Abduction Gluteus medium Lateral surface Greater
of the ilium trochanter of
femur
Brings the thighs Abduction Gluteus External surface Greater
back together manimus of the ilium trochanter of
femur
Assists with Flexion Tensor fascia Anterior aspect Ilotibial tract
raising the knee Abduction lata of the iliac crest
at the hip and and the anterior
opening thighs superior iliac
Maintains spine
posture by
stabilizing the
iliotibial track,
which connects
to the knee
Lateral rotators
Twists the thigh Lateral rotation Piriformis Anterolateral Greater
(and lower leg) surface of the trochanter of
outward sacrum femur
Maintains
posture by
stabilizing the
hip joint
Twists the thigh Lateral rotation Obturator Inner surface of Greater
(lower leg) internus the obturator trochanter in
outward membrane front of
Maintains Greater sciatic piriformis
posture by notch
stabilizing he hip Margins of the
joint obturator
foramen
Twists thigh Lateral rotation Obturator Outer surfaces of Trochanteric
(lower leg) externus obturator fossa of
outward membrane, posterior femur
Maintains pubic and
posture by ischium
stabilizing hip Margins of
joint obturator
foramen
 Twists thigh Lateral rotation Superior Ischial spine Greater
(lower leg) gemellus trochanter of
outward femur
Maintains
posture by
stabilizing hip
joint
Twists thigh Lateral rotation Inferior Ischial tubeorsity Greater
(lower leg) gemellus trochanter of
outward femur
Maintains
posture by
stabilizing hip
joint
Twists thigh Lateral rotation Quantratus Ischial tuberosity Trochanteric
(lower leg) femoris crest of femur
outward
Maintains
posture by
stabilizing hip
joint
Adductors
Brings the thighs Adduction Adductor longus Pubis near the Linea aspera
back together Flexion pubic symphysis
Assists with
raising the knee
Brings the thighs Adduction Adductor brevis Body of the Linea above
back together Flexion pubis and in the adductor longus
Assists with inferior ramus of
raising the knee pubis
Brings the thighs Adduction Adductor Ischial rami Linea aspera
back together Flexion magnus Pubic rami Adductor
Assists with Extension Ischial tuberosity tubercle of
raising the knee femur
and moving the
thigh back
Opens the thigh Adduction Pectineous Pectineal line of Lesser trochanter
Raising the knee Flexion the pubis to linea aspera of
and turning the Medial rotation posterior aspect
thigh (lower leg) of femur
inward
Table 15 Gluteal Region Muscles That Move the Femur

The tensor fascia lata is a thick, squarish muscle in the superior aspect of the lateral thigh.
It acts as a synergist of the gluteus medium and iliopsoas in flexing and abducting the thigh. It
also help stabilize the lateral aspect of the knee by pulling on the iliotibial tract, making it taut.
Deep to the gluteus maximus, the piriformis, obturator internus, obturator externus, superior
gemellus, inferior gemellus, and quadratus femoris laterally rotate the femur at the hip. The
adductor longus, adductor brevis and adductor magnus can both medially and laterally rotate the
thigh depending on the placement of the foot. The adductor longus flexes the thigh, whereas the
adductor magnus extends it. The pectineus adducts and flexes the femur at the hip. The
pectineus is located in the femoral triangle, which is formed at the junction between the hip and
the leg and also includes the femoral nerve, the femoral artery, the femoral vein and the deep
inquinal lymph nodes.

Thigh Muscles that move the Femur, Tibia and Fibula

Deep fascia in the thigh separates it into medial, anterior and posterior compartments.
The muscles in the medial compartment of the thigh are responsible for adducting the femur at
the hip. Along with the adductor longus, adductor brevis, adductor magnus, and pectineus, the
strap like gracilis adducts the thigh in addition to flexing the leg at the knee.

Movement Target Target Prime mover Origin Insertion

motion
direction
Medial compartment of thigh
Moves the Femur Tibia/fibula: Gracilis Inferior ramus Medial
back of the Tibia/ fibula flexion Body of pubis surface of
lower legs up Thigh: Ischial ramus tibia
toward the adduction
buttocks
Assists in
opening the
thighs
Anterior compartment of the thigh: quadriceps femoris grouop
Moves the Femur Tibia/fibula: Rectus femoris Anterior inferior Patella
lower leg out Tibia/fibula extension iliac spine Tibial
in front of the Thigh: flexion Superior margin tuberosity
body of the acetabulum
Assists in
raising the
knee
Moves the Tibia/fibula extension Vastus lateralis Greater Patella
lower leg out trochanter, Tibial
in front of the Intertrochanteric tuberosity
body line
Linea aspera
Vastus medialis Linea aspera
Intertrochanteric
line
Vastus Proximal femur
intermedius shaft
Moves the Femur Tibia: flexion Sartorius Anterior superior Medial
back of the Tibia/fibula Thigh: flexion iliac spine aspect of
lower legs up Abduction, proximal
 and back Lateral tibia
toward the rotation
buttocks
Assists in
moving the
thigh
diagonally
upward and
outward
Posterior compartment of the thigh: Hamstring group
Moves the Femur Tibia/fibula: Biceps femoris Ischial tuberosity Head of
back of the Tibia/fibula flexion Linea aspera and fibula
lower leg and Thigh: Distal femur Lateral
back toward extension condyle of
the buttocks Lateral tibia
Moves the rotation
thigh down
and back and
twists the
thigh (lower
leg) outward
moves the Tibia/fibula: Semitendinosus Ischial tuberosity Upper tibial
back of the flexion shaft
lower legs up Thigh:
toward the extension,
buttocks, medial
Moves the rotation
thigh down
and back and
twists the
thigh (and
lower leg)
inward
Moves the Semi Medial
back of the membranosus condyle of
lower legs up tibia
and back Lateral
toward the condyle of
buttocks femur
Moves the
thigh down
and back and
twists the
thigh (lower
leg) inward
Table 16 Thigh Muscles That Move the Femur, Tibia, and Fibula

The muscles of the anterior compartment of the thigh flex the thigh and extend the leg.
This contains quadriceps femoris group, which action is to extend and stabilize the knee. The
rectus femoris is located on the anterior part of the thigh, the vastus lateralis is on the lateral side
and the vastus medialis is on the medial part of the thigh and lastly the vastus intermedius is
between the vastus lateralis and vastus medialis and deep to the rectus femoris.

The posterior compartment of the thigh includes muscles that flex the leg and extend the
thigh. The three long muscles on the back of the knee are the hamstring group which flexes the
knee. These are biceps femoris, semitendinosus and semimembranosus.

Muscles that move the Feet and Toes

Muscles of the leg are divided into compartments by deep fascia.

22 Muscles of the Lower Leg

Movement Target Target Prime mover Origin Insertion

motion
direction
Anterior compartment of the leg
Raises the sole Foot Dorsiflexion: Tibialis anterior Lateral Interior
of the foot off inversion condyle and surface of
the ground upper tibial medial
Bends the shaft cuneiform
inside of the Interosseous First
foot upwards membrane metatarsal
Falling bone
laterally
toward the
opposite side
as the
balancing foot
Raises the sole Foot Foot: Extensor Anteromedial Distal phalanx
of the foot off Big toe dorsiflexion halluces longus fibula shaft of big toe
the ground Big toe: and
Extends the extension interosseous
big toe membrane
Raises the sole Foot Foot: Extensor Lateral Middle and
of the foot off Toes 2-5 dorsiflexion digitorum condyle of the distal
the ground Toes: longus tibia phalanges of
Extends the extension Proximal toes 2-5
toes portion of the
fibula
Interosseous
membrane
Lateral compartment of the leg
Lowers the Foot Plantar flexion Fibularis Upper portion First
sole of the and eversion longus of the lateral metatarsal
foot to the fibula Medial
ground cuneiform
Bends the
inside of the
foot
downwards

Lowers the Fibularis Distal fibula Proximal end

side of the (peroneus) shaft of fifth
foot to the brevis metatarsal
ground
Bends the
inside of the
foot
downward
Posterior compartment of leg: superficial muscles
Lowers the Foot:’ Foot: Gastrocnemius Medial and Posterior
sole of the Tibia/fibula Plantar flexion lateral calceneus
foot to the Tibia/fibula: condyles of the
ground flexion femur
Assists in
moving the
back of the
lower legs up
and back
toward the
buttocks
Lowers the Foot Planar flexion Soleus Superioir tibia, Posterior
sole of the Fibula calcaneus
foot to the Interosseous
ground membrane
Maintains
 posture while
walking
Lowers the Foot: Foot: plantar Plantaris Posterior Calcaneus or
sole of the tibia/fibula flexion femur above calcaneus
foot to the Tibia/fibula: the lateral tendon
ground flexion condyle
Assists in
moving the
back of eh
lower legs up
and back
toward the
buttocks
Lowers the Foot Plantar flexion Tibialis Superior tibia Several tarsals
sole of the posterior and fibula and
foot to the Interosseous metatarsals 2-
ground membrane 4
Posterior compartment of the leg: deep muscles
Moves the Tibia/fibula Tibia/fibula: Popliteus Lateral Proximal tibia
back of the flexion’ condyle of the
lower legs up Thigh and femur and the
and back lower leg: lateral
toward the Medial and meniscus
buttocks lateral rotation
Assists in
rotation of the
leg at the knee
and thigh
Lowers the Foot: Foot: plantar Flexor Posterior tibia Distal
sole of the Toes 2-5 flexion and digitorum phalanges of
foot to the inversion longus toes 2-5
ground Toes: flexion
Bends the
inside of the
foot upward
and flexes he
toes
Flexes the big Big toe: Big toe: Flexor halicis Midshaft of Distal phalanx
toe foot flexion longus tibula of big toe
Foot: planar Interosseous
flexion membrane
Table 17 Muscles That Move the Feet and Toes

The muscles of the anterior compartment of the leg: tibialis anterior, a long and thick
muscle on the lateral surface of the tibia, the extensor halluces longus is located deep and the
extensor digiorum longus is laterally placed. All of these muscles contributes to the raising the
front of the foot during contraction. The fibularis tertius is a small muscle that originates on the
anterior surface of the fibula and is associated with extensor digitorum longus for some people it
is fused together. The lateral compartment of the leg includes fibularis longus or peroneus
longus and fibularis brevis or proneus brevis. The superficial muscles in the posterior
compartment of the legis all inserted to calcaneal tendon or the Achilles tendon, a strong tendon.
Gastrocnemius is the most superficial and visible muscle of the calf. Soleus is a flat and located
deeply to the gastrocnemius. The plantaris runs obliquely between the two muscles. There are
four deep muscles in the posterior compartment of the leg: popliteus, flexor digitorum longus,
flexor halluces longus and tibialis posterior.

The foot has intrinsic muscles that originates and insert within it. This will provide
support for the foot and its arch, and contribute to movements of the toes. The principal support
for the longitudinal arch of the foot is a deep fascia called plantar aponeurosis, which runs from
the calcaneus bone to the toes (plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of this tissue). The intrinsic
muscles of the foot consist of two groups: the dorsal groups with extensor digitorum brevis, and
the plantar group which consists of four layers.

23 Intrinsic Muscles of the Foot.

Movement Target Target Prime Origin Insertion

motion mover
 direction
Dorsal group
Extends toes 2-5 Toes 2-5 Extension Extensor Calcaneus Base of
digitorum Extensor retinaculum proximal
brevis phalanx of
big toe
Extensor
on toes 2-5
Plantar group layer 1
Abducts and flexes Big toe Adduction Abductor Calcaneal tuberosity Proximal
the big toe Flexion hallucis Flexor retinaculum phalanx of
big toe
Plantar group layer 2
Assists the flexing Toes 2-5 Flexion Quadratus Medial and lateral Tendon of
toes 2-5 plantae sides of the calcaneus flexor
digitorum
longus
Extends toes 2-5 at Toes 2-5 Extension Lumbricals Tendons of the flexor Medial side
the interphalangeal Flexion digitorum longus of proximal
joints phalanx of
Flex the small toes at toes 2-5
the
metatarsophalangeal
joints
Plantar group layer 3
Flexes the big toe Big toe flexion Flexor Lateral cuneiform Base of
halluces and in the cuboid proximal
brevis bones phalanx of
Adducts and flexes Adduction Adductor Bases of metatarsals big toe
the big toe Flexion hallucis 2-4 in the fibularis
Longus tendon sheath
Ligament across the
metatarsophalangeal
joints
Flexes the small toe Little toe flexion Flexor digiti Base of metatarsal 5 Base of
minimi Tendon sheath of the proximal
brevis fibularis longus phalanx of
little toe
Plantar group layer 4
Abducts and flexes Middle Abduction Dorsal Sides of the Both sides
the middle toes at the toes Flexion inerossei metatarsals of the toe 2
metatarsophalangeal Extension For each
joints other to,
Extends the middle Extensor
toes at the expansion
interphalangeal joins over first
phalanx on
side
opposite
toe 2
 Abducts toes 3-5 Small Abduction Plantar Side of each Extensor
Flexes the proximal toes Flexion interossei metatarsal that faces expansion
phalanges Extension metatarsal 2 on first
Extends the distal phalanx of
phalanges each toe
(except toe
2) on side
facing toe 2
Table 18 Muscles of the foot

Check this site:

1. The powerpoint presentation
2. This link http://www.visiblebody.com/index.html

References:
https://www.soinc.org/sites/default/files/uploaded_files/16_A
%26P_MUSCULAR_REVIEW.pdf
https://wordmint.com/public_puzzles/205252
https://courses.lumenlearning.com/suny-ap1/chapter/the-muscular-system/