Lower Limb and Adaptation to Function Flashcards
- What are the major functional adaptations of the lower limb?
The lower limb is adapted for weight-bearing, locomotion, and shock absorption.
- How does the pelvic girdle contribute to weight transmission in the lower limb?
The pelvic girdle transmits body weight from the trunk to the lower limbs via the sacroiliac joints.
- What are the primary weight-bearing bones of the lower limb?
The femur, tibia, and talus are the primary weight-bearing bones.
- How is the femur adapted to support body weight?
The femur has a thick cortex, a curved shaft, and a strong trabecular structure to support weight.
- What is the significance of the angle of inclination of the femur?
The angle of inclination optimizes hip stability and weight transmission; a decrease leads to coxa vara, while an increase leads to coxa valga.
- What is the function of the acetabulum in the hip joint?
The acetabulum provides a deep, stable socket for the femoral head, enhancing stability.
- How is the knee joint adapted for stability and mobility?
The knee joint has strong ligaments, menisci, and muscular support to balance mobility and stability.
- What is the role of the patella in lower limb function?
The patella increases the leverage of the quadriceps femoris, improving knee extension.
- How do the menisci contribute to knee joint function?
The menisci distribute load, absorb shock, and improve joint congruency.
- What is the function of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)?
The ACL prevents anterior displacement of the tibia on the femur.
- What is the function of the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL)?
The PCL prevents posterior displacement of the tibia on the femur.
- How does the structure of the tibia aid in weight-bearing?
The tibia has a broad proximal surface and a strong shaft to support body weight.
- What is the functional significance of the arches of the foot?
The foot arches absorb shock, distribute weight, and provide propulsion.
- What structures support the medial longitudinal arch of the foot?
The medial longitudinal arch is supported by the plantar fascia, tibialis posterior, and spring ligament.
- What is the role of the plantar fascia in foot function?
The plantar fascia maintains the foot arch and absorbs shock during walking.
- How does the gluteus maximus contribute to locomotion?
The gluteus maximus extends and stabilizes the hip, especially during climbing and sprinting.
- What is the role of the iliopsoas muscle in lower limb movement?
The iliopsoas is the primary hip flexor, aiding in lifting the limb during walking.
- How do the quadriceps femoris muscles function in gait?
The quadriceps femoris extends the knee and stabilizes the patella during gait.
- What is the role of the hamstring muscles in walking and running?
The hamstrings flex the knee and extend the hip, crucial for propulsion.
- How does the Achilles tendon contribute to movement?
The Achilles tendon stores and releases energy for efficient movement.
- What is the role of the peroneal (fibular) muscles in foot movement?
The peroneal (fibular) muscles evert the foot and stabilize the lateral ankle.
- How do the intrinsic muscles of the foot support locomotion?
The intrinsic foot muscles stabilize the arches and assist in balance.
- What is the Trendelenburg sign, and what does it indicate?
The Trendelenburg sign indicates weak hip abductors, leading to pelvic drop on the contralateral side.
- How is the lower limb adapted for energy-efficient walking?
The lower limb conserves energy through pendulum-like motion and elastic recoil mechanisms.
- What is the role of the hip abductors in maintaining balance during gait?
The hip abductors stabilize the pelvis during single-leg stance phases of gait.
- How does the lumbar spine interact with the lower limb during movement?
The lumbar spine stabilizes and transmits forces to the lower limbs during movement.
- What is the role of the sciatic nerve in lower limb function?
The sciatic nerve supplies the posterior thigh, leg, and foot muscles.
- How does venous return occur efficiently in the lower limb?
Venous return is aided by muscle contractions, venous valves, and the arteriovenous pump.
- What is the functional significance of the deep fascia of the lower limb?
The deep fascia compartmentalizes muscles, assists in venous return, and enhances muscular efficiency.
- How do lower limb adaptations contribute to bipedal locomotion?
Bipedal locomotion is enabled by limb length, muscle arrangement, and joint adaptations for stability and propulsion.
