GROSS ANATOMY

Lecture Syllabus 2008

Unit #4: Upper and Lower Limbs

ANAT 6010 - Gross Anatomy

Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy
University of Utah School of Medicine

G24- Upper Limb Overview, Shoulder, and Axilla

G25- Arm and Elbow
G26- Forearm and Wrist
G27- Hand
G28- Hip and Posterior Compartment of the Thigh
G29- Anterior and Medial Thigh
G30- Leg and Knee
G31- Foot and Ankle

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G24: Upper Limb Overview and Shoulder and Axilla

At the end of this lecture, students should be able to master the following:
1) Upper limb overview
a) Cutaneous innervation of the upper limb
• Compare and contrast the dermatomes and cutaneous fields of the upper limb
• Dermatome: area of skin supplied by a single spinal cord level
• Cutaneous field: area of skin supplies by a single peripheral nerve branch ( multilple spinal cord lev-
els)

Dermatomes Cutaneous fields

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 b) Major vessels
i) Superficial veins
Describe the location and direction of flow through the major superficial veins of the upper limb
- Cephalic

- Basilic

- Median cubital

- Dorsal veins of the hands

ii) Arteries
Trace the pathway and distribution of the principle arteries through the upper limb
- Subclavian
- Axillary
- Brachial
- Radial and ulnar
- Superficial and deep palmar arches

2) Actions of the Upper Limb

a) Describe the structure/action(s) of the following:
• Pectoral girdle (scapula and clavicle)
• Scapula- protraction, retraction, elevation, depression, upward rotation, downward rotation
• Glenohumeral joint- flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, medial rotation, lateral rotation
• Humeroulnar (elbow) joint- flexion, extension
• Proximal and distal radioulnar joints- supnation, pronation
• Wrist joint- flexion, extension, abduction (radial deviation), adduction (ulnar deviation)

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3) Fascia of the Upper Limb
a) Describe the fascial organization of the upper limb:
Between the skin and bone are two fascial layers in the upper limb termed the superficial and deep fascia:

- Superficial fascia: located deep to the skin and contains superficial veins (cephalic, median cubital, ba-
silic), cutaneous nerves, superficial lymphatics and fat.

- Deep fascia: located deep to the superficial fascia and contains muscles, nerves, vessels and deep lym-
phatics. The deep fascia is a continuation of the deep fascia covering the deltoid and pectoralis major
muscles. As the deep fascia extends distally, intermuscular septa extend to the bone dividing the arm and
forearm into anterior and posterior compartments in the arm and forearm. Each compartment contains
muscles that perform similar actions and have common innervation and attachments.

Arm Forearm
- Anterior: Flexors, musculocutaneus nerve - Anterior: Flexors, medial epicondyle, median
- Posterior: Extensors, radial nerve and ulnar nerves
- Posterior: Extensors, lateral epicondyle,
radial nerve

4) Skeletal muscle basics

Skeletal muscles in the limbs:
- attach to at least two separate bones (origin and insertion)
- act on the joint(s) that the muscle crosses between the attachments
- contract when a muscle fiber generates tension through the actin and myosin cross-bridging cycling

The term “contraction” implies a shortening or reduction, however, in reality contraction refers to the genera-
tion of tension by muscle fibers with the help of motor neurons.

While under tension, the muscle may shorten, remain the same or lengthen (muscle cells do not push)
- Concentric contraction: muscle shortens (biceps curl)
- Isometric contraction: no change in length of muscle (muscles of the hand and forearm while gripping
an object)
- Eccentric contraction: muscle lengthens while under pressure due to an opposing force being greater
than the force generated by the muscle (setting an object down gently)

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5) Axilla: Muscles of the shoulder girdle
a) Describe the attachments, principle actions, and relations of the muscles of the shoulder girdle as grouped
below

Table – Muscles of the Shoulder Girdle

Muscle Proximal Attachment Distal Attachment Action Innervation
Scapular Muscles
Subclavius 1st rib Clavicle Depresses the clavicle Nerve to the
subclavius (C5)
Trapezius Occipital bone, nuchal Spine, acromion and Elevates, retracts, rotates Spinal accessory
ligament, C7-T12 lateral clavicle and depresses the scapula n. and C3 and C4
vertebrae spinal nerves
Levator scapulae Transverse processes of Superior angle of the Elevates the scapula Dorsal scapular n.
C1–C4 scapula (C5) and C3 and C4
spinal nerves
Rhomboid minor C7–T1 vertebrae Retracts the scapula Dorsal scapular n.
Rhomboid major T2–T5 vertebrae Medial margin of the (C5)
scapula
Serratus anterior Ribs 1-8 Protracts and rotates the Long thoracic n.
scapula (C5-C7)
Pectoralis minor Ribs 3-5 Coracoid process of the Protracts and depresses the Medial pectoral n.
scapula scapula (C8-T1)
Intertuberular Groove Muscles
Pectoralis major Clavicle, sternum and Intertubercular groove of Adducts, medial rotates, Medial and lateral
costal cartilage the humerus extends and flexes the pectoral nn. (C5-T1)
humerus
Latissimus dorsi T7–T12, sacrum, Intertubercular groove of Adducts, extends and Thoracodorsal n.
thoracolumbar fascia the humerus medial rotates the humerus (C6-C8)
Teres major Inferior angle of the Intertubercular groove of Adducts, extends and Lower subscapular
scapula the humerus medially rotates the n.
humerus (C6-C7)
Deltoid Spine, acromion and Deltoid tuberosity of the Flexes, extends and abducts Axillary n. (C5-C6)
lateral clavicle humerus the humerus
Rotator Cuff Muscles

• Supraspinatus Supraspinous fossa Abduction of humerus (first Suprascapular n.

Greater tubercle of the 15°) (C4-C6)
• Infraspinatus Infraspinous fossa humerus Laterally rotates the Suprascapular n.
humerus (C5-C6)
• Teres minor Lateral margin of the Medially rotates the Axillary n. (C5-C6)
scapula humerus
• Subscapularis Subscapular fossa Lesser tubercle of the Upper and lower
humerus subscapular nn.

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6) Brachial Plexus- Shoulder
a) Draw and label all parts of the brachial plexus; describe the topographical relations of the plexus as it passes through
the neck, shoulder, and axilla; and describe the origin, course and distribution of the branches that supply the shoulder
• Roots (Randy) - 5 roots between anterior and middle scalene mm.
• Trunks (Travis) - 3 trunks lateral to the interscalene space and superior to the clavicle
• Divisions (Drinks) - 6 divisions deep to the clavicle (3 anterior and 3 posterior)
• Cords (Cold) - 3 cords in the axilla, deep to the pectoralis minor m. named according to their position to axillary a.
• Branches (Beer) - 5 branches to the upper limb (3 anterior division and 2 posterior division)
(See tutorial on DIGANAT on drawing the brachial plexus)

i) Roots (C5-T1)- pass between the anterior and middle scalenes with the subclavian a. (subclavian vein courses
anterior to the anterior scalene m.)
• Dorsal scapular nerve- (C5) pierces the middle scalene, descends deep to the levator scapulae, rhomboideus
mm. along with the deep branch of the transverse cervical a. supplying both rhomboideus mm. and partially the
levator scapulae
• Long thoracic nerve- (C5-C7) descends posterior to the roots of the plexus and the axillary a., descends along
the lateral surface of the serratus anterior m. with the lateral thoracic a. while supplying the muscle

ii) Trunks (superior, middle, inferior)- emerge between anterior and middle scalenes and descend towards the clavicle
• Suprascapular nerve- (C5,C6) branches off the upper trunk, courses across the posterior triangle of neck,
through the suprascapular foramen, inferior to the transverse scapular ligament, (suprascapular a. and v. pass su-
perior to the transverse scapular ligament) to supply the supraspinatus m.; continues through the greater scapu-
lar notch to supply the infraspinatus m.
• Nerve to the subclavius- (C5, C6) branches off the upper trunk to the subclavius m.
• No branches arise from the middle and infeiror trunks

iii) Divisions (anterior, posterior)- anterior divisions innervate anterior compartments of the limb (flexor muscles);
posterior divisions innervate posterior compartments of the limb (extensor muscles)

iv) Cords (medial, lateral, posterior)- medial and lateral cords arise from the anterior divisions and are named for their
relation to the axillary a.; the posterior cord arises from the posterior division and runs posterior to the axillary a.
• Lateral pectoral nerve- (C5-C7) branches off the lateral cord, sends a branch to the medial pectoral n. anterior to
the axillary a., passes proximal to the pectoralis minor to reach the pectoralis major m.
• Medial pectoral nerve- (C8, T1) branches off the medial cord, receives a contribution from the lateral pectoral
n., pierces the pectoralis minor m., supplying it as it passes, continues deep to the pectoralis m.
• Medial brachial cutaneous nerve (C8-T1)
• Medial antebrachial cutaneous nerve (C8-T1)
• Upper subscapular nerve- (C5, C6) branches off posterior cord, enters anterior surface of the subscapularis m.
• Thoracodorsal nerve (middle subscapular)- (C6-C8) branches off the posterior cord, descends to the posteriolat-
eral thorax to supply the latissimus dorsi m.
• Lower subscapular nerve- (C5, C6) branches off the posterior cord, splits to send one branch to the anterior
surface of the subscapularis m. and one to the anterior surface of the teres major m.

v) Branches
• Musculocutaneous nerve (C5-C7)
• Median nerve (C5-T1)
• Ulnar nerve (C7-T1)
• Axillary nerve- (C5, C6) terminal branch of the posterior cord, courses through the quadrangular space then
splits, sending one branch to the teres minor m.and the other to the deltoid m; also contributes to the lateral bra-
chial cutaneous nerve, supplying the glenohumeral joint and the skin over the deltoid m.
• Radial nerve (C5-T1)

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7) Brachial plexus lesions

1. Waiter’s tip
2. Claw hand
3. Wrist drop
4. Winged scapula
5. Deltoid paralysis
6. Saturday night palsy (wrist drop)
7. Difficulty flexing elbow, variable sensory loss
8. Decreased thumb function; Sign of Benediction
9. Intrinsic muscles of hand; claw hand

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8) Vascularization of the Shoulder
a) Subclavian artery- branches directly from the aortic arch on the left and from the brachiocephalic artery on the right,
passes between the anterior and middle scalenes (subclavian v. is anterior to the anterior scalene)
i) Describe the origin, course, and destination of the following subclavian artery branches to the shoulder

(1) Thyrocervical trunk- branches medial to the anterior scalene

(a) Transverse cervical artery- crosses anterior to the anterior scalene, branches at the lateral border of the anterior
scalene into deep and superficial transverse cervical arteries
• Superficial transverse cervical artery- dives deep to the trapezius and descends between the trapezius and the
rhomboideus muscles
• Dorsal scapular artery (deep transverse cervical artery)- dives deep to the trapezius and levator scapulae, de-
scends along the medial border of the scapula deep to the rhomboideus muscles; forms a collateral circuit with
the circumflex scapular and suprascapular arteries

(b) Suprascapular artery- crosses anterior to the anterior scalene as it courses laterally towards the supraspinous fos-
sa (passes superficial to the transverse scapular ligament and suprascapular nerve), then through the greater scapular
notch to the infraspinous fossa, forms a collateral circuit with the circumflex scapular and dorsal scapular arteries

b) Axillary artery- continuation of the subclavian artery from the external border of the first rib to the distal border of the
teres major muscle where it gives rise to brachial artery
ii) Describe the three parts of the axillary artery and the origin, course, and destination of the branches of each part

(1) First part- (one branch) external border of the first rib to the proximal border of the pectoralis minor muscle
(a) Superior thoracic artery- supplies the upper part of the anterior and medial axillary walls

(2) Second part- (two branches) runs posterior to the pectoral is minor muscle
(a) Thoraco-acromial artery- wraps around the proximal border of the pectoralis minor then branches into the
pectoral, acromial, clavicular, and deltoid branches; each are named for the region they supply
(b) Lateral thoracic artery- runs with the long thoracic nerve along the lateral surface of the thorax supplying the
serratus anterior and surrounding tissue; one of very few arteries that runs superficial to the muscle it supplies

(3) Third part- (three branches) distal border of the pectoralis minor muscle to the distal border of the teres major
muscle
(a) Subscapular artery- runs along the anterior surface of the subscapularis, branches into the circumflex scapular
artery and thoracodorsal artery
• Circumflex scapular artery- courses through the triangular space to the posterior side of the scapula and anas-
tamoses with the suprascapular and dorsal scapular (deep transverse cervical) arteries
• Thoracodorsal artery- runs with the thoracodorsal nerve along the posteriolateral thorax, supplying the latis-
simus dorsi
(b) Anterior circumflex humeral artery- courses anteriorly around the surgical neck of the humeral and anasta-
moses with the posterior circumflex humeral artery supplying surrounding tissue including the deltoid muscle, the
glenohumeral joint, and the head of the humerus
(c) Posterior circumflex humeral- passes through the quadrangular space with the axillary nerve, wraps around
the surgical neck of the humerus, and forms anastamoses with the anterior circumflex humeral, profunda brachii,
suprascapular, and thoraco-acromial arteries; supplies surrounding muscles and glenohumeral joint

c) Lymphatics of the shoulder- describe the location and drainage areas of the five groups of axillary lymph nodes
• Humeral (lateral) nodes- posterior to the axillary vein; drain from the brachium
• Pectoral (anterior) nodes- along distal border of the pectoral is minor muscles; drain abdominal wall, thoracic wall,
and mammary gland
• Subscapular (posterior) nodes- posterior axillary wall; drain posterior axillary wall, neck, shoulder, and upper back
• Central nodes- embedded in axillary fat; drain humeral, pectoral, and subscapular nodes
• Apical nodes- proximal to the pectoralis minor, surrounding the axillary vein; drain all other axillary nodes and
other lymphatic vessels from the mammary gland; drain into the subclavian trunk 9
9) Axillary Borders and Spaces
a) Describe the borders of the axillary space
• Anterior border- pectoralis major and minor muscles and clavicopectoral fascia
• Posterior border- subscapularis, teres major, and latissimus dorsi muscles
• Lateral border- intertubercular groove of the humerus and coracobrachialis muscle
• Medial border- serratus anterior (first to fourth ribs)
• Apex- first rib, clavicle, and proximal edge of the subscapularis
• Base- skin, subcutaneous tissue and axillary fascia that spans from the arm to the thorax

b) Describe the borders and anatomical contents of the following anatomical spaces associated with the axilla

i) Quadrangular space:
• Borders- teres major, teres minor, long head of the triceps brachii muscles, and the surgical neck of the
humerus
• Contents- axillary nerve and posterior circumflex humeral artery

ii) Triangular interval:

• Borders- long and lateral heads of the triceps brachii (or humeral shaft) and the teres major muscles
• Contents- radial nerve and deep brachial artery

iii) Triangular space:

• Borders- teres major, teres minor, and the long head of the triceps brachii muscles
• Contents- circumflex scapular artery

10) Glenohumeral joint

a) Describe the articulations of the glenohumeral joint:
- Head of the humerus
- Glenoid cavity of the scapula
- Glenoid labrum

b) Describe the location and function of the ligaments of the glenohumeral joint:
- Capsular ligaments (superior, middle, and inferior glenohumeral)
- Coracohumeral
- Posterior capsular)
- Coracoacromial ligaments

c) Describe the muscles that support the glenohumeral joint

- Rotator cuff (supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, subscapularis)
- Biceps brachii
- Triceps brachii)

d) Describe the function of the bursae associated with the glenohumeral joint

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G25: Arm and Elbow

At the end of this lecture, students should be able to master the following:
1) Muscles of the Arm
a) Describe the attachments, actions, and relations of the muscles of the brachium (see muscle table)

Table – Muscles of the Arm

Muscle Proximal Attachment Distal Attachment Action Innervation

Anterior Compartment
Coracobrachialis Coracoid process of the Medial surface of the Flexes and adducts the Musculocutaneous n.
scapula humerus humerus (C5-C7)
Biceps brachii Long head: supraglenoid Radial tuberosity Flexes and supinates the Musculocutaneous n.
tubercle elbow (C5-C6)
Short head: coracoid process

Brachialis Distal, ventral surface of the Coronoid process of Flexes the elbow
humerus the ulna
Posteiror Compartment
Triceps brachii Long head: infraglenoid
tubercle Olecranon process of Extends the elbow Radial n. (C6-C8)
Lateral head: posterior the ulna
humerus
Medial head: posterior
humerus

2) Brachial plexus- Arm

a) Describe the pathway and distribution of the branches of the brachial plexus that supply the muscles of the
brachium
• Musculocutaneous nerve- arises from lateral cord, pierces the coracobrachialis m. innervating it as it
passes, descends through the brachium between the biceps brachii and brachialis, supplying both muscles;
pierces the deep fascia just distal to the elbow to become the lateral antebrachial cutaneous nerve
• Radial nerve- arises from the posterior cord, courses through the triangle interval with the deep brachial a.
supplying the triceps brachii and the posterior and lateral skin of the brachium (inferior lateral and dorsal
brachial cutaneous nerves), laterally pierces the intermuscular septum to enter the anterior compartment,
descends between the brachialis and brachioradialis m.
• Medial brachial cutaneous nerve- branches from the medial cord, supplies anteromedial skin of arm

Arm Forearm
- Anterior: Flexors, musculocutaneus nerve - Anterior: Flexors, medial epicondyle, median
- Posterior: Extensors, radial nerve and ulnar nerves
- Posterior: Extensors, lateral epicondyle,
radial nerve

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3) Vascularization of the arm

a) Brachial artery- the axillary artery becomes the brachial artery at the distal border of the teres major muscle;
courses through the medial side of anterior brachial compartment, terminates in the cubital fossa as it bifurcates
into the ulnar and radial arteries
i) Describe the course and distribution of the following branches of the brachial artery
• Profunda brachii (deep brachial) artery- travels with the radial nerve through triangular interval and
through the radial groove; forms an anastomosis with the posterior circumflex humeral artery; bifurcates
mid brachium into the radial and middle collateral arteries
• Superior ulnar collateral artery-courses posterior to the medial epicondyle of the humerus; forms an
anastamosis with the posterior ulnar recurrent artery
• Inferior ulnar collateral artery- splits around the medial epicondyle of the humerus; forms an anastamo-
sis with the anterior recurrent ulnar artery and the middle collateral artery

b) Ulnar artery- passes through the cubital fossa, courses though the anterior antebrachium between the flexor
carpi ulnaris and the flexor digitorum profundus muscles supplying the medial muscles of the anterior ante-
brachium; terminates as the deep and superficial ulnar palmar aches
i) Describe the course and distribution of the following branches of the ulnar artery
• Ulnar recurrent artery- splits into anterior and posterior branches which anastamose with the inferior
and superior ulnar collateral arteries respectively
• Common interosseous artery- courses towards the interosseous membrane and splits into anterior and
posterior interosseous branches
• Anterior interosseous artery- travels along the anterior surface of the interosseous membrane
• Posterior interosseous artery- travels along the posterior surface of the interosseous membrane, con-
tributes to the recurrent interosseous artery

c) Radial artery- travels through the cubital fossa, courses deep to the brachioradialis supplying lateral ante-
brachial muscles; terminates as deep and superficial radial palmar arches
i) Describe the course and distribution of the following branches of the radial artery
• Radial recurrent artery- anterior to lateral epicondyle of the to anastamose with the radial collateral a.

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4) Joints of the Arm and Forearm
a) Elbow joint
i) Describe the classifications and articulations of the elbow joint complex
• Humeroulnar joint- synovial hinge; trochlea of the humerus and trochlear notch of the ulna
• Humeroradial joint- synovial gliding; capitulum of the humerus and head of the radius
• Proximal radioulnar- synovial pivot; head of the radius and the radial notch of the ulna

ii) Describe the location and function of the ligaments of the elbow joint complex
- Capsular
- Ulnar collateral
- Radial collateral
- Annular ligaments

iii) Describe the function of bursae associated with the elbow joint complex
• Describe the location of the olecranon bursa

b) Distal radioulnar joint

i) Describe the classification and articulation of the distal radioulnar joint:
- Synovial pivot
- Head of the ulna
- Ulnar notch of the radius
- Triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC)
- Triangular articular disc

ii) Describe the relation between the elbow complex, distal radioulnar joint, and interosseous membrane
during movement

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G26: Forearm and Wrist

At the end of this lecture, students should be able to master the following:
1) Muscle of the antebrachium
a) Describe the attachments, actions, and relations of the forearm muscles (see muscle table)

Muscle Table: Forearm Muscles

Muscle Proximal Attachment Distal Attachment Action Innervation
Forearm Flexors (anterior compartment of forearm)
Pronator teres Middle of the radius Pronates and flexes the Median n. (C6-C7)
elbow
Flexor carpi radialis Medial epicondyle of 2nd metacarpal Flexes and abducts the
the humerus wrist
Palmaris longus Flexor retinaculum and Flexes the wrist and Median n. (C7-C8)
the palmar aponeurosis tightens the palmar
aponeurosis
Flexor carpi ulnaris Pisiform, and 5th Flexes and adducts the Ulnar n. (C7-C8)
metacarpal wrist
Flexor digitorum Medial epicondyle, Lateral surfaces of the Flexes the wrist,
superficialis coronoid process of the middle phalanx of digits metacarpophalangeal and Median n. (C7-T1)
ulna and anterior border 2-5 proximal interphalangeal
of the radius joints
Flexor digitorum Medial surfaces of Distal phalanx of digits Flexes joints from Medial part: ulnar n.
profundus the proximal ulna and 2-5 the wrist to the distal (C8-T1)
interosseous membrane interphalangeal joints Lateral part: median
n. (C8-T1)
Flexor pollicis longus Radius Distal phalanx of digit Flexes the thumb Anterior
one interosseous n. from
Pronator quadratus Distal anterior ulna Distal anterior radius Pronates the elbow the median n. (C8-
T1)
Forearm Extensors (posterior compartment of forearm)
Brachioradialis Lateral supracondylar Styloid process of the Flexes the elbow Radial n. (C5-C7)
ridge of the humerus radius
Extensor carpi radialis 2nd metacarpal Extends and abducts the Radial n. (C6-C7)
longus wrist
Extensor carpi radialis 3rd metacarpal Extends the wrist
brevis Lateral epicondyle of Posterior
Extensor digitorum the humerus Extensor expansion of Extends the wrist and interosseous n.
digits 2-5 fingers (C7-C8), the
Extensor digiti minimi Extensor expansion of Extends digit 5 continuation of the
digit 5 deep branch of the
Extensor carpi ulnaris 5th metacarpal Extends and adducts the radial n.
wrist
Supinator Lateral epicondyle and Distal to the radial Supinates the forearm Deep branch of the
supinator crest of the tuberosity radial n. (C5-C6)
ulna
Abductor pollicis longus Ulna, radius and 1st metacarpal Abducts and extends the Posterior
interosseous membrane thumb interosseous n.
Extensor pollicis brevis Radius and interosseous Proximal phalanx of Extends the thumb at the (C7-C8), the
membrane digit 1 carpometacarpal joint continuation of the
Extensor pollicis longus Ulna and interosseous Distal phalanx of digit 1 Extends the thumb deep branch of the
membrane radial n.
Extensor indicis Lateral epicondyle of Extensor expansion of Extends digit 2
the humerus digit 2
Anconeus Olecranon process of Extends the elbow Radial n. (C7-T1)
the ulna
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2) Brachial plexus- Forearm
a) Describe the course and distribution of the branches of the brachial plexus that supply the antebrachium

i) Ulnar nerve- arises from the medial cord, travels with the brachial artery along the medial side of the
brachium, pierces the intermuscular septum mid brachium to enter the posterior compartment, courses pos-
terior to the medial epicondyle of the humerus in the osseous groove, then enters the anterior compartment
of the antebrachium passing between the two heads flexor carpi ulnaris; descends though the anterior ante-
brachium supplying the flexor carpi ulnaris and the ulnar half of the flexor digitorum profundus, continues
into the hand superficial to the carpal tunnel

ii) Median nerve- arises from the medial and lateral cords, travels with brachial artery along the medial side
of the brachium, courses through the cubital fossa deep to the bicipital aponeurosis and between the two
heads of the pronator teres to enter the anterior antebrachium; descends through the antebrachium between
the flexor digitorum superficialis and profundus supplying the anterior antebrachial muscles less the ulnar
half of flexor digitorum profundus and flexor carpi ulnaris then travels through the carpal tunnel to enter the
hand

iii) Radial nerve- arises from the posterior cord, courses through the triangle interval with the deep brachial
artery supplying the triceps brachii, laterally pierces the intermuscular septum to enter the anterior compart-
ment, descends in the radial groove between the brachialis and brachioradialis; along the way gives rise to
the inferior lateral brachial cutaneous and dorsal brachial cutaneous nerves; the radial nerve then splits into a
superficial and deep branch
• Deep branch of the radial nerve- travels posterior to the lateral epicondyle of the humerus piercing the
anconeus to enter the posterior antebrachium supplying the muscles of the posterior antebrachium
• Superficial branch of the radial nerve- runs along the brachioradialis muscle then through the anatomical
snuff box

iv) Medial antebrachial cutaneous nerve- branches from the medial cord, supplies the medial skin of the
antebrachium

Arm Forearm
- Anterior: Flexors, musculocutaneus nerve - Anterior: Flexors, medial epicondyle, median
- Posterior: Extensors, radial nerve and ulnar nerves
- Posterior: Extensors, lateral epicondyle,
radial nerve

3) Radiocarpal joint

a) Describe the classification and articulations of the radiocarpal joint- synovial condyloid; distal end of the
radius, triangular fibrocartilage cartilaginous complex, scaphoid, lunate, and triquetrium

b) Describe the location and function of the ligaments of the radiocarpal joint (capsular, palmar and dorsal
radiocarpal, ulnocarpal, radial collateral, ulnar collateral)

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G27: Hand

At the end of this lecture, students should be able to master the following:
1) Fascia of the hand and the carpal tunnel
a) Describe the location and relations of the fascial layers of the palm (palmar aponeurosis, fibrous digital
sheaths, transverse carpal ligament)

b) Describe the boundaries and anatomical contents of the carpal tunnel:

• Boundaries- carpal bones and transverse carpal ligament (flexor retinaculum)
• Contents- four tendons of the flexor digitorum superficialis, four tendons of the flexor digitorum profun-
dus, tendon of the flexor pollicis longus, and the median nerve

2) Actions of the fingers and thumb

a) Describe the actions of the following joints:
i) Carpometacarpal joint of the thumb- flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, opposition, reposition

ii) Metacapophalangeal (MP) joints of the thumb and fingers- flexion, extension, abduction, adduction for
fingers; flexion and extension for the thumb

iii) Interphalangeal (IP) joints of the fingers and thumb- flexion and extension

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3) Muscles of the hand
a) Describe the attachments, actions, and relations of the hand muscles (see muscle table)

Muscles Tables- Hand Muscles

Muscle Proximal Attachment Distal Attachment Action Innervation

Palmaris brevis Palmar aponeurosis and The dermis on the ulnar Tenses the skin over the Ulnar n.,
flexor retinaculum side of the hand hypothenar muscles superficial branch
(C8-T1)
Thenar muscles
Abductor pollicis brevis Flexor retinaculum, Proximal phalanx of digit Abducts and opposes the
scaphoid and trapezium 1 thumb Median n.,
Flexor pollicis brevis Flexes digit 1 recurrent branch
Opponens pollicis 1st metacarpal Opposes the thumb to the (C8-T1)
other digits
Adductor compartment
Adductor pollicis Oblique head: 2nd and
3rd metacarpals and Proximal phalanx of digit Adducts the thumb Ulnar n., deep
capitate 1 branch (C8-T1)
Transverse head: 3rd
metacarpal
Hypothenar muscles
Abductor digit minimi Pisiform bone Abducts digit 5
Flexor digiti minimi Proximal phalanx of digit Flexes the proximal
brevis Hook of the hamate and 5 phalanx of digit 5 Ulnar n., deep
flexor retinaculum branch (C8-T1)
Opponens digiti minimi 5th metacarpal Opposes digit 5 to the
thumb
Central compartment
Lumbricals 1 and 2 Lateral 2 tendons of Flexes the
the flexor digitorum Lateral sides of the metacarpophalangeal Median n. (C8-
profundus extensor expansion for joints and extends the T1)
Lumbricals 3 and 4 Medial 2 tendons of digits 2-5 interphalangeal joints
the flexor digitorum Ulnar n. (C8-T1)
profundus
Dorsal interossei 1-4 Adjacent sides of 2 Extensor expansion and Abducts the digits (DAB)
metacarpals base of the proximal
phalanges of digits 2-4 Ulnar n., deep
branch (C8-T1)
Palmar interossei 1-3 2nd, 4th and 5th Extensor expansion Adducts the digits (PAD)
metacarpals proximal phalanges 2, 4
and 5

17
4) Brachial Plexus- Hand
a) Describe the pathway and distribution of the brachial plexus branches to the muscles of the hand

i) Ulnar nerve- enters the hand superficial to the carpal tunnel, lateral to the pisiform bone accompanying the
ulnar artery dividing into a deep and superficial branch
- Deep branch: crosses the palm in a fibro-osseous tunnel (Guyon’s tunnel) supplying the hypothenar com-
partment, adductor pollicis, dorsal interossei, palmar interossei, and the two medial lumbricals
- Superficial branch: supplies the palmaris brevis then splits into palmar digital branches to travel along
the fifth digit and the medial side of the fourth digit to supply the surrounding skin

ii) Median nerve- after passing through the carpal tunnel, branches into a recurrent branch and palmar digital
branches
- Recurrent branch: innervates the thenar muscles of the hand
- Palmar digital branches: travel along the first three digits and the lateral side of the fourth supplying the
lateral two lumbricals, the palmar skin of the first three digits, and lateral side of the fourth digit

iii) Radial nerve- the superficial branch enters the hand by passing superficial to the anatomical snuff box,
supplies skin on the dorsal side of the first three digits (provides no motor supply to the hand muscles)

b) Review ulnar, median and radial nerve contributions to the dermatomes of the hand
- Thumb (C6)
- Middle finger (C7)
- Pinky (C8)

5) Vascularization of the hand

a) Ulnar artery- enters the hand lateral to the pisiform with the ulnar nerve, principle contributor to the superfi-
cial palmar arch
i) Describe the course and distribution of the branches of the ulnar artery that supply the hand
• Superficial palmar arch- just deep to the palmar aponeurosis, anastamoses with the palmar branch of the
radial artery; gives rise to the common palmar digital arteries to supply the digits
• Deep palmar branch- curves medially around the hook of the hamate to the deep layer of the palm; anas-
tamoses with the deep palmar arch of the radial artery

b) Radial artery- passes through the anatomical snuff box then dives anteriorly deep into the hand, principle
contributor to the deep palmar arch
i) Describe the course and distribution of the branches of the radial artery that supply the hand
• Deep palmar arch- travels deep to the adductor pollicis, anastamoses with deep palmar branch of ulnar
artery
• Dorsal carpal arterial arch- courses along the dorsal side of wrist, gives rise to the dorsal metacarpal
arteries

c) Veins of the hand

i) Describe the drainage pathway from the dorsal venous network of the hand

18
19
G28: Lower Limb Overview, Hip, and Posterior Thigh

At the end of this lecture, students should be able to master the following:
1) Cutaneous innervation of the lower limb
a) Compare and contrast the dermatomes and cutaneous fields of the lower limb

Dermatomes Cutaneous
fields

2) Fascia of the Lower Limb

a) Describe the fascial organization of the lower limb:
Between the skin and bone are two fascial layers in the lower limb termed the superficial and deep fascia:
- Superficial fascia: located deep to the skin and contains superficial veins (great and lesser saphenous),
cutaneous nerves, superficial lymphatics and fat.
- Deep fascia: located deep to the superficial fascia and contains muscles, nerves, vessels and deep lym-
phatics. As the deep fascia extends distally, intermuscular septa extend to the bone dividing the thigh and
leg into the following compartments:
- Thigh: Anterior and Posterior
- Leg: Anterior, lateral and posterior
Each compartment contains muscles that perform similar actions and have common innervation and at-
tachments.

20
3) Actions of the Lower Limb
a) Describe the actions of the following joints:
• Hip joint- flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, lateral rotation, medial rotation
• Knee joint- flexion, extension, medial rotation, lateral rotation
• Ankle joint (talocuraral joint) -plantar flexion, dorsal flexion
• Inertarsal joints (talocalcaneonavicular and subtalar joints)- inversion and eversion of the foot

4) Muscles of the hip and posterior thigh

a) Describe the attachments, actions, and relations of the muscles of the hip and posterior thigh (see muscle
table)

Muscle Prox. attachment Distal attachment Action Innervation

Gluteal region mm.
Gluteus maximus Ilium, sacrum, coccyx Iliotibial tract and Extends hip, lateral hip Inferior gluteal n.
and sacrotuberous gluteal tuberosity of rotation and steadies hip (L5-S2)
ligament femur
Gluteus medius Ilium Abducts and medially Superior gluteal n.
Gluteus minimus rotates hip (L5-S1)
Piriformis Anterior sacrum Anterior rami S1-S2
Superior gemellus Ischial spine Greater trochanter External hip rotation
Inferior gemellus Ischial tuberosity Stabalizes pelvis during
Obturator internus Obturator membrane gait Anterior rami L5-S1
Quadratus femoris Ischial tuberosity

Muscle Prox. attachment Distal attachment Action Innervation

Thigh mm. (posterior)
Semitendinosus Medial to the tibial Tibial division of sciatic
Ischial tuberosity tuberosity n. (L5, S1-S2)
Semimembranosus Medial condyle of tibia
(posteriorly) Extend thigh and flex
knee
Biceps femoris Long head: tibial division
Long head: ischial of sciatic n. (L5-S2)
tuberosity Head of fibula Short head: common
Short head: linea aspera peroneal n. of sciatic n.
(L5-S2)

Posterior compartment:
- Common muscles
- Common attachment
- Common action
- Common innervation
- Common blood supply

21
5) Lumbosacral plexus- hip and posterior thigh (Table 5-4 GAFS good reference pg. 422)
a) Lumbar plexus- draw, label (DIGANAT tutorial)
i) T12-L4 Ventral rami- course through the psoas major muscle
ii) Branches:
• Subcostal (T12), iliohypogastric, and ilioinguinial (T1) nn.- supply abdominal body wall mm. and skin
• Genitofemoral n. (L1-L2)- supplies skin over the femoral triangle
• Lateral femoral cutaneous n. (L2-L3)- pierces body wall near the ASIS to supply skin of the lateral thigh
• Femoral nerve (L2-L4) - emerges lateral to the psoas major muscle, between the psoas and the iliacus
mm., deep to the inguinal ligament to supply the anterior compartment thigh muscles
• Obturator nerve (L2-L4) - emerges medial to the psoas major m., travels through the obturator foramen
to enter medial compartment of the thigh

b) Sacral plexus- draw, label (DIGANAT tutorial)

i) Lumbosacral trunk- (L4 and L5) descends along the sacrum to join the sacral components of the plexus

ii) S1-Co1 Ventral rami- enter the pelvis anterior to the piriformis and pelvic floor mm., join the lumbosacral
trunk to form the sacral plexus

iii) Branches:
• Superior gluteal nerve (L4-S1) - travels superior to the piriformis m. with the superior gluteal artery to
supply the gluteus medius, gluteus minimis, and tensor fasciae latae mm.

• Inferior gluteal nerve (L5-S2) - travels inferior to piriformis m. with the inferior gluteal artery to supply
the gluteus maximus m.

• Nerve to quadratus femoris (L4-S1) - supplies quadratus femoris and inferior gemellus
• Nerve to the obturator internus (L5-S2) - travels inferior to the piriformis m., then between the sacrotu-
berous and sacrospinous ligaments to supply the obturator internus and superior gemellus
• Nerve to the piriformis (L5-S2) - sends fibers directly into the piriformis muscle

• Pudendal nerve (S2-S4) - travels inferior to the piriformis m., then between the sacrotuberous and
sacrospinous ligaments to enter the ischioanal fossa supplying the pelvic floor and perineum

• Perforating cutaneous nerve (S2-S3) - travels inferior to the piriformis m., perforates the sacrotuberous
ligament, curves around the inferior border of the gluteus maximus m. to supply skin of the gluteal fold
• Posterior femoral cutaneous nerve (S1-S3) - travels inferior to the piriformis m. just medial to the sciatic
nerve, deep to the gluteus maximus m.; supplies the skin of the posterior thigh

• Sciatic nerve (L4-S3) - (common peroneal and tibial nerves) travels inferior to the piriformis m., de-
scends deep to the gluteus maximus m., enters the posterior thigh deep to the biceps femoris, splits into
the tibial and common peroneal nerves

(a) Tibial nerve (L4-S3) - supplies the long head of the biceps femoris, semimembranosus, semitendi-
nosus mm. as well as the hamstring part of adductor magnus; passes through the popliteal fossa be-
tween the two heads of the gastrocnemius m. to enter the posterior leg

(b) Common fibular (peroneal) nerve (L4-S2) - supplies the short head of the biceps femoris and the
lateral skin of the crus (lateral sural cutaneous field), travels between the lateral head of the gastrocne-
mius and the insertion of the biceps femoris, curves around the neck of the fibula then branches into
the deep and superficial fibular (peroneal) nerves as it enters the leg 22
6) Vascularization of the hip
a) Internal iliac artery- describe the origin, course, and destination of the branches of the internal iliac artery
that supply the hip
i) Superior gluteal artery- travels superior to the piriformis m. with the superior gluteal nerve to supply the
gluteus medius, gluteus minimis, and tensor fasciae latae

ii) Inferior gluteal artery- travels inferior to the piriformis m. with the inferior gluteal nerve to supply the
gluteus maximus

iii) Internal pudendal artery- travels inferior to the piriformis with the pudendal nerve, between the sacrotu-
berous and sacrospinous ligaments to the ischioanal fossa to supply the pelvic floor and perineum

b) External iliac artery- describe the origin, course, and destination of branches of the external iliac artery that
supply the posterior thigh

i) Femoral artery- courses deep to the inguinal ligament, through the femoral triangle to the adductor canal

(1) Deep artery of the thigh (Profunda femoris artery)- branches posteriorly between the pectineus and
adductor longus muscles, descends through the thigh between the adductor longus and adductor magnus,
gives rise to the perforating arteries

(a) Perforating arteries- perforate the adductor magnus to supply the posterior compartment of the thigh

7) Hip joint
Describe the classification and articulations of the hip joint- synovial ball-and-socket; head of the femur, acetab-
ulum of the os coxa, acetabular labrum

Describe the location and function of the ligaments of the hip joint:
- Iliofemoral
- Pubofemoral
- Ischiofemoral
- Ligamentum teres

Describe the vascularization of the hip joint- circumflex femoral arteries and foveolar arteries

Describe the function of the bursae associated with the hip joint (subtendinous iliac bursa, synovial protrusion)

23
G29: Anterior and Medial Thigh

At the end of this lecture, students should be able to master the following:
1) Fascia of the thigh
a) Describe the location and relations of the fascia of the thigh (fascia lata and medial, lateral, and posterior
intermuscular septa)
2) Muscles of the anterior and medial thigh
a) Describe the attachments, actions, and relations of the muscles of the anterior and medial thigh (see muscle
table)

Muscle Prox. Attachment Distal Attachment Action Innervation

Thigh mm. (anterior)
Pectineus Superior ramus of pubis Pectineal line of femur Adduction and flexion Femoral n. (L2-L3)
of hip
Iliopsoas
• Psoas major T12-L5 Lesser trochanter of Flexing thigh at hip Anterior rami of L1-L3
• Iliacus Iliac fossa and crest femur joint Femoral n. (L2-L3)
Tensor fascia lata Anterior iliac crest Iliotibial tract Abducts, medially Superior gluteal n.
rotates, and flexes hip (L4-L5)
Sartorius ASIS Medial to the tibial Flexes, abducts and Femoral n. (L2-L3)
tuberosity laterally rotates hip;
flexes knee
Quadriceps femoris
• Rectus femoris AIIS
Base of patella and by
• Vastus lateralis Linea aspera
the patellar ligament to Extend leg at knee joint Femoral n. (L2-L4)
• Vastus medialis the tibial tuberosity
• Vastus intermedius Anterior femoral shafts
Thigh mm. (medial)
Adductor longus Pubis Linea aspera Adducts hip Obturator n. (L2-L4)
Adductor brevis
Adductor magnus Adductor division: Adductor division: linea Adductor division: Adductor division:
ischial ramus aspera adducts hip obturator n. (L2-L4)
Hamstring division: Hamstring division: Hamstring division: Hamstring division:
ischial tuberosity Adductor tubercle extends hip tibial n. of sciatic (L4)
Gracilis Pubis Medial to the tibial Adducts hip, flexes leg Obturator n. (L2-L3)
tuberosity
Obturator externus Obturator membrane Trochanteric fossa of Lateral hip rotation Obturator n. (L3-L4)
femur

Anterior compartment: Medial compartment:

- Common muscles - Common muscles
- Common attachment - Common attachment
- Common action - Common action
- Common innervation - Common innervation
- Common blood supply - Common blood supply

24
3) Lumbar plexus- thigh
a) Describe the origin course and distribution of the branches of the lumbar plexus that supply the anterior and
medial muscles of the thigh

• Femoral nerve (L2-L4)- enters the anterior thigh deep to the inguinal ligament, muscular branches supply
the muscles of the anterior thigh except the psoas major; cutaneous branches perforate the fascia to supply
the anterior skin of the thigh and knee; the saphenous branch travels in the adductor canal just deep to the
sartorius to become cutaneous on the medial side of the knee, crus, and foot

• Obturator nerve (L2-L4)- enters the medial thigh through the obturator canal then splits into an anterior
and posterior branch, named for their relation to the adductor brevis muscle; supplies the medial compart-
ment of the thigh except the pectineus and the skin of the medial thigh

4) Vascularization of the anterior and medial thigh

a) Describe the anatomical contents and relations of the femoral triangle (femoral Nerve, Artery, Vein, and
Lymphatics)

b) External iliac artery- describe the origin, course, and destination of branches of the external iliac artery that
supply the anterior and medial thigh
i) Femoral artery- courses deep to the inguinal ligament, through the femoral triangle to the adductor canal
(1) Deep artery of the thigh (Profunda femoris artery)- branches posteriorly between the pectineus and
adductor longus muscles, descends through the thigh between the adductor longus and adductor magnus,
gives rise to the medial circumflex femoral, lateral circumflex femoral, and perforating arteries

(a) Medial circumflex femoral artery- wraps medially around the femur between the iliopsoas and
pectineus, courses over the superior margin adductor magnus, forms anastamoses with the lateral cir-
cumflex femoral branches, perforating arteries, and the inferior gluteal artery

(b) Lateral circumflex artery- travels deep to sartorius and rectus femorus, divides into three branches
(i) Ascending branch- ascends deep to the tensor fasciae latae, anastamoses with the medial circumflex
femoral artery to supply the femoral neck and head
(ii) Descending branch- descends deep to the vastus lateralis to anastamose with popliteal branches
(iii) Transverse branch- perforates the vastus lateralis to anastamose with the medial circumflex femo-
ral, inferior gluteal, and perforating arteries around the hip joint

c) Internal iliac artery- describe the origin, course, and destination of branches of the internal iliac artery that
supply the anterior and medial thigh
i) Obturator artery- travels through the obturator canal with the obturator nerve, but splits inside the canal
into an anterior and posterior branch; both branches supply medial thigh muscles and form anastamoses with
medial circumflex femoral and inferior gluteal arteries; the posterior branch helps supply the femoral head

d) Superficial veins- trace blood flow through the superficial veins of the of the lower limb (dorsal venous
arch, small saphenous, great saphenous, accessory saphenous veins)

25
G30: Leg and Knee

At the end of this lecture, students should be able to master the following:
1) Muscles of the leg
a) Describe the attachments, actions and relations of the muscles of the leg (see muscle table)

Muscle Prox. Attachment Distal Attachment Action Innervation

Leg mm. (anterior)
Tibialis anterior Lateral condyle of tibia 1st metatarsal Dorsal flexion and Deep peroneal n.
inversion (L4-L5)
Extensor digitorum Lateral condyle of tibia Middle and distal Extends digits 2-5;
longus and medial fibula phalanges of digits 2-5 dorsal flexion
Extensor hallucis Anterior fibula Great toe (digit 1) Extends great toe; Deep fibular n. (L5-
longus dorsal flexion S1)
Fibularis (peroneus) Inferior third of fibula 5th metatarsal Dorsal flexion and
tertius eversion
Leg mm. (lateral)
Peroneus (fibularis) Upper fibula Metatarsal 1
longus Eversion and Superficial fibular
Peroneus (fibularis) Lower fibula Metatarsal 5 plantarflexion (peroneal) n. (L5-S2)
brevis
Leg mm. (posterior)
Gastrocnemius Medial and lateral Plantar flexion and
condyles of femur knee flexion
Soleus Posterior tibia and fibula Calcaneus via the Plantar flexion Tibial n. (S1-S2)
calcaneal tendon
Plantaris Lateral supracondylar Plantar flexion and
line knee flexion
Popliteus Lateral condyle of femur Tibia Knee flexion/unlocks Tibial n. (L4-S1)
extended knee
Flexor hallucis longus Posterior surface of Distal phalanx of great Flexes great toe
fibula toe Tibial n. (S2-S3)
Flexor digitorum Posterior surface of tibia Distal phalanges of Flexes digits 2-5
longus and fibula digits 2-5
Tibialis posterior Posterior surface of tibia Navicular, cuneiform, Plantar flexion and Tibial n. (L4-L5)
and fibula cuboid, and metatarsals inversion
2-4

Anterior compartment of Leg: Posterior compartment of Leg:

- Common muscles - Common muscles
- Common attachment - Common attachment
- Common action - Common action
- Common innervation - Common innervation
- Common blood supply - Common blood supply

Lateral compartment of Leg:

- Common muscles
- Common attachment
- Common action
- Common innervation
- Common blood supply

26
2) Sacral plexus- leg
a) Describe the origin, course and distribution of the branches of the sacral plexus that supply the leg
i) Sciatic nerve:
• Tibial nerve- (L4-S3) passes through the popliteal fossa between the two heads of the gastrocnemius to
enter the posterior crus, sends off the sural nerve to supply the skin of the posterior leg, then continues
through the posterior crus, deep to the soleus supplying all of the posterior cural muscles, travels posterior
to the medial malleolus in the tarsal tunnel, giving rise to the cutaneous medial calcaneal nerve, then con-
tinues to the plantal surface of the foot where it terminates as the medial and lateral plantar nerves

• Common fibular (peroneal) nerve (L4-S2)- courses laterally through the popliteal fossa between the lateral
head of the gastrocnemius and the insertion of the biceps femoris, gives rise to the lateral sural nerve to
supply the skin of the lateral crus before wrapping around the neck of the fibula and dividing into the deep
and superficial fibular nerves

• Superficial fibular (peroneal) nerve- descends through the lateral compartment of the of the leg be-
tween the fibularis longus and brevis innervating both muscles, travels anterior to the lateral malleo-
lus to the dorsal side of the foot

• Deep fibular (peroneal) nerve- passes through the intermuscular septum to enter the anterior compart-
ment of the leg, descends deep to the extensor digitorum longus to the dorsal side of the foot, supplies
all the muscles of the anterior compartment of the leg supplies

27
3) Vascularization of the leg and knee
• Femoral artery- describe the origin, course, and distribution of thebranches of the femoral artery that sup-
ply the knee and leg

• Popliteal artery- arises from femoral artery after passing through the adductor hiatus to the popliteal fossa
• Superior and inferior medial geniculate arteries- wrap anteriorly around the medial side of the knee to
the anastamotic network of arteries on the anterior side of the knee

• Superior and inferior lateral geniculate arteries- wrap anteriorly around the lateral side of the knee to
joint the anastamotic network of arteries on the anterior side of the knee

• Anterior tibial artery- travels through the aperture of the interosseous membrane to enter the anterior
compartment of the leg, gives rise to the recurrent branch which joins the anastamotic network around
the knee, then descends through the anterior compartment of the leg anterior to the interosseous mem-
brane supplying anterior leg muscles, travels anterior to the medial malleolus to the dorsal side of the
foot as the dorsal pedis artery

• Posterior tibial artery- descends through the deep plane of the posterior leg supplying the posterior leg
muscles, gives rise to the fibular arteryjust distal to the knee, courses posterior to the medial malleolus
in the tarsal tunnel to enter the platar surface of the foot
• Fibular (peroneal) artery- descends along the lateral border of the posterior compartment of the leg
supplying the lateral compartment, courses posterior to the lateral malleolus

4) Knee joint
Describe the classification and articulations of the knee joint- synovial hinge (double condyloid); medial and
lateral femoral condyles, medial and lateral tibial condyles

- Menisci: fibrocartilaginous C-shaped cartilages, in the knee joint one medial and one lateral
- Medial meniscus: attached to the tibial collateral ligament
- Lateral meniscus: unattached to the joint capsule and is therefore more mobile

Describe the synovial membrane and bursae associated with the knee joint

Describe the location and function of the ligaments of the knee:

- Patellar
- Collateral ligaments: stabilize the hing-like motion of the knee
- Fibular collateral: separated from fibrous membrane by a bursa
- Tibial collateral: attached to the fibrous membrane, which is attached to the medial meniscus
- Cruciate ligaments: named according to their attachment on the tibia
- Anterior cruciate: prevents anterior displacement of the tibia relative to the femur
- Posterior cruciate: prevents posterior displacement of the tibia relative to the femur

Describe the muscular support for the knee joint (vastus medialis, vastus lateralis, posterior thigh muscles,
medial thigh muscles)

28
G31: Foot and Ankle

At the end of this lecture, students should be able to master the following:
1) Plantar Aponeurosis
a) Describe the attachments and function of the plantar aponeurosis
2) Actions of the toes
a) Describe the actions of the following joints:
• Metatarsalphalangeal joints- flexion, extension, abduction, adduction
• Interphalageal joints- flexion, extension
3) Muscles of the foot
a) Describe the attachments, actions, and relations of the muscles of the foot (see muscle table)
Foot Muscles
Muscle Origin Insertion Action Innervation

Dorsal muscles
Extensor dig. brev Calcaneus bone Digits 1-5 Extension of Deep fibular n. (S1-
digits S2)

Plantar muscles
First layer
Adductor hallucis Digit 1 Adduct, flex Med plantar n. (S2-
digit 1 S3)
Flexor dig brevis Calcaneus bone Digits 2-5 Flex digits 2-5
Abd digiti minimi Digit 5 Abduct digit 5 Lat plantar n. (S2-S3)
Second layer
Quadratus plantae Calcaneus bone Tendon of flexor digi- Flex digits 2-5 Lat plantar n. (S1-S3)
torum longus
Lumbricals Tendon of flexor digi- Expansion over digits Flex prox. pha- 1: Med plant (S2-S3)
torum longus 2-5 langes, extend 2-4: Lat plant (S2-S3)
mid and distal
IP
Third layer
Flex halluc brevis Cuboid and lateral Digit 1 Flex digit 1 Med plant (S1-S2)
cuneiform bones
Adductor hallucis Oblique: Metatars 2-4 Digit 1 Adduct digit 1 Lat plant (S2-S3)
Transv: MP joints deep branch
Flex dig minimi 5th metatarsal Digit 5 Flex digit 1 Lat plant (S2-S3)
superficial branch
Fourth layer
Plant interossei Metatarsals 3-5 Digits 3-5 Adduct digits
2-4; flex MP
joints Lat plant (S2-S3)
Dorsal interossei Metatarsals 1-5 Dorsal expansion of Abduct digits
digits 2-4 2-4; flex MP
joints
29
4) Lumbosacral plexus- foot
a) Common fibular (peroneal) nerve (L4-S2)
• Superficial fibular (peroneal) nerve- courses anterior to the lateral malleolus to supply skin of the dorsum
of the foot

• Deep fibular (peroneal) nerve- enters the dorsal side of the foot deep to the extensor hallucis longus to sup-
ply the extensor digitorum brevis and the skin between the first two toes

b) Tibial nerve- enters the foot from the tarsal tunnel, splits into the medial and lateral plantar nerves
• Medial plantar nerve- supplies the first lumbrical, abductor hallucis, flexor hallucis brevis, flexor digito-
rum brevis (1LAFF), and the medial plantar skin

• Lateral plantar nerve- supplies the second through fourth lumbricals, adductor hallucis, abductor digiti
minimi, flexor digiti minimi, quadratus plantae, dorsal interossei (DAB), plantar interossei (PAD), and the
lateral plantar skin

5) Vascularization of foot and ankle

a) Anterior tibial artery
i) Describe the origin, course, and distribution of the branches of the anterior tibial artery that supply the
foot and ankle
(1) Anterior lateral and anterior medial malleolar arteries- wrap posteriorly around the malleoli
(2) Dorsal pedis artery- continuation of the anterior tibial artery onto the dorsal surface of the foot, gives
rise to the arcuate artery
(a) Arcuate artery- arches across the metatarsals to supply the toes

b) Posterior tibial artery

i) Describe the origin, course, and distribution of the branches of the posterior tibial artery that supply the
foot and ankle
(1) Medial plantar artery- travel along medial arch towards the first digit
(2) Lateral plantar artery- courses laterally along the plantar surface of the foot, forms the deep plantar
arch which supplies the digits

30
6) Ankle and foot joints
a) Ankle (talocrural) joint
Describe the classification and articulations of the ankle joint- synovial joint; distal ends of tibia and fibula,
trochlear surface of the talus

Describe the muscular support for the ankle joint (anterior, posterior, and lateral compartments of the leg)

Describe the location and function of the ligaments of the ankle:

- Medial/deltoid ligament (tibionavicular, tibiocalcaneal, posterior tibiotalar, anterior tibiotalar)
- Lateral ligament (anterior talofibular, posterior talofibular, calcaneofibular)

b) Foot joints
• Describe the location and function of the intertarsal joints- transverse tarsal joint, subtalar joint; inver-
sion, eversion of the foot

c) Arches of the foot

• Describe the location and function of the three arches of the foot- lateral longitudinal, medial longitudi-
nal, transverse arches

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