Triceps
Triceps
The Triceps (pronounced: /ˈtraɪsɛps/), also known as the triceps brachii muscle, is a large muscle on the back of the upper limb of many vertebrates. It is the muscle principally responsible for extension of the elbow joint (straightening of the arm).
Etymology
The term "triceps" is derived from Latin, meaning "three-headed". This refers to the fact that the triceps muscle has three muscle 'heads' or points of origin.
Anatomy
The triceps, as its name suggests, is a three-headed muscle that is located at the back of the upper arm. These heads are:
- The long head which originates from the scapula (shoulder blade)
- The lateral head which originates from the humerus (upper arm bone)
- The medial head which also originates from the humerus
All three heads converge into a single muscle belly and attach to the upper part of the ulna in the forearm.
Function
The primary function of the triceps is to extend the elbow – that is, to straighten the arm. This muscle is also responsible for stabilizing the shoulder joint and assisting in adduction and extension of the arm.
Related Terms
- Biceps: The muscle located on the front of the upper arm, opposite the triceps. It is primarily responsible for flexion of the elbow.
- Deltoid: The muscle forming the rounded contour of the shoulder. It is responsible for arm rotation and allows for arm abduction.
- Brachialis: A muscle in the upper arm that flexes the elbow joint. It lies deeper than the biceps brachii, and makes up part of the floor of the region known as the cubital fossa.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Triceps
- Wikipedia's article - Triceps
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