Question

The infraspinatus muscle's name gives us information about it. What does the word "spinatus" in its name tell us?

Its general location
Its overall shape
Its general size (compared to other muscles)
The number of attachments it has
The direction of its muscle fibers
Its action

Answer 1

The word "spinatus" in the name "infraspinatus" tells us about its general location and the direction of its muscle fibers.

Step-by-step explanation:

a. Its general location: The term "infraspinatus" itself gives us information about the general location of the muscle. The prefix "infra-" means "below" or "beneath," indicating that the muscle is located below the spine of the scapula (shoulder blade).

e. The direction of its muscle fibers: The word "spinatus" suggests the direction of the muscle fibers. It is derived from the Latin word "spina," meaning "spine" or "thorn." In the case of the infraspinatus muscle, the word "spinatus" indicates that its muscle fibers are oriented in a spinelike or spiky pattern. The muscle fibers of the infraspinatus run horizontally or obliquely from the spine of the scapula to the greater tubercle of the humerus (upper arm bone).

Therefore, the word "spinatus" in the name of the infraspinatus muscle provides information about its general location below the scapula and the direction of its muscle fibers, indicating its role in shoulder movement and stabilization.