Kinesiology & Biomechanics Flashcards

The rotator cuff is composed of which four muscles?

Answer: Supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis

The rotator cuff consists of supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis — collectively stabilizing the glenohumeral joint.

Which type of joint allows rotation around a single axis, as seen in the atlantoaxial joint of the cervical spine?

Answer: Pivot joint

A pivot joint, like the atlantoaxial joint, permits rotation around one axis — allowing the head to turn left and right.

Pronation of the forearm involves:

Answer: Rotating the palm to face downward (posteriorly)

Pronation rotates the radius over the ulna, turning the palm to face downward or posteriorly.

Which muscle is the primary wrist flexor located on the medial (ulnar) side of the forearm?

Answer: Flexor carpi ulnaris

The flexor carpi ulnaris is the primary wrist flexor on the medial side, originating from the medial epicondyle and inserting on the pisiform.

In muscle function terminology, an 'agonist' is best described as:

Answer: The primary muscle responsible for producing a specific movement

The agonist (prime mover) is the muscle primarily responsible for producing the desired joint movement.

Lumbar lordosis refers to:

Answer: An exaggerated anterior (inward) curve of the lower back

Lumbar lordosis is the natural inward curve of the lower back; excessive lordosis (hyperlordosis) increases this anterior curvature beyond normal.

What is the primary role of fascia in the musculoskeletal system?

Answer: To connect, support, and separate muscles and soft tissue structures

Fascia is connective tissue that envelops and separates muscles, organs, and other structures, providing support, transmitting forces, and enabling sliding between layers.