ANSA CAPITIS Meaning and
Definition
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"Ansa capitis" is a Latin term used in anatomy and medicine to refer to a specific anatomical structure found in the human neck. Literally translating to "neck handle" in English, it denotes the loop-shaped structure formed by the confluence of two important muscles called the sternocleidomastoid and the trapezius.
The ansa capitis is located in the lower part of the posterior neck region, lateral to the cervical spine. It forms an important landmark for understanding the muscular and neural structures in this area. The sternocleidomastoid muscle, originating from the sternum and clavicle and inserting on the mastoid process of the temporal bone, forms the anterior limb of the ansa capitis, while the trapezius muscle, originating from the occipital bone, ligamentum nuchae, and the spinous processes of the cervical and thoracic vertebrae, forms the posterior limb.
Due to its location and the muscles it incorporates, the ansa capitis plays a vital role in controlling head movements, particularly rotation and lateral flexion. It is responsible for maintaining proper posture, stabilizing the head and neck, and assisting in the flexion and extension of the cervical spine.
Understanding the ansa capitis is essential not only for anatomists, physicians, and surgeons but also for physical therapists and other healthcare professionals dealing with patients experiencing neck pain, postural imbalances, or any musculoskeletal issues related to the neck and upper back region.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for ANSA CAPITIS
- znsa capitis
- snsa capitis
- wnsa capitis
- qnsa capitis
- absa capitis
- amsa capitis
- ajsa capitis
- ahsa capitis
- anaa capitis
- anza capitis
- anxa capitis
- anda capitis
- anea capitis
- anwa capitis
- ansz capitis
- anss capitis
- answ capitis
- ansq capitis
- ansa xapitis
- ansa vapitis
Etymology of ANSA CAPITIS
The phrase "ansa capitis" comes from Latin.
"Ansa" means "handle" or "loop", and "capitis" means "of the head". The combination "ansa capitis" is often translated as "handle of the head". It is derived from the Latin word "caput", meaning "head".
In anatomy, "ansa capitis" specifically refers to the loop-shaped structure formed by nerve fibers around the cerebral peduncles in the brain.
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