SAGITTAL AXIS Meaning and
Definition
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The sagittal axis is a term used in anatomy and biomechanics to describe an imaginary line that extends through a human body, dividing it into left and right halves. Specifically, it represents the axis around which flexion and extension movements occur.
In human physiology, the sagittal axis is essential for understanding the body's movements. It is oriented parallel to the body's sagittal plane, an anatomical plane that divides the body into anterior (front) and posterior (back) sections. The sagittal axis traverses the body from top to bottom, passing through the center of the head and intersecting the sagittal plane at the point where the nose meets the forehead.
The sagittal axis plays a crucial role in actions such as bending forward and backward, as well as in movements that occur primarily in one plane, without significant rotation. For instance, during the act of bending the trunk forward or backward, the sagittal axis serves as the pivot point. It allows flexion and extension of the body, facilitating movements such as nodding, bending at the waist, or standing upright.
Understanding the sagittal axis is crucial not only in anatomical studies but also in fields like kinesiology, physical therapy, and sports training. By comprehending the mechanics and limitations of movements along the sagittal axis, practitioners can apply this knowledge to diagnose and treat various conditions, design exercise programs, and improve overall physical performance.
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The anteroposterior a. of the eyeball.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for SAGITTAL AXIS
- aagittal axis
- zagittal axis
- xagittal axis
- dagittal axis
- eagittal axis
- wagittal axis
- szgittal axis
- ssgittal axis
- swgittal axis
- sqgittal axis
- safittal axis
- savittal axis
- sabittal axis
- sahittal axis
- sayittal axis
- satittal axis
- saguttal axis
- sagjttal axis
- sagkttal axis
- sagottal axis
Etymology of SAGITTAL AXIS
The word "sagittal" comes from the Latin word "sagitta", which means "arrow". In anatomical terms, "sagittal" refers to a plane or line that divides the body into left and right halves. It is derived from the idea that this division resembles an arrow's flight path from front to back.
The word "axis" in this context refers to an imaginary line around which an object rotates. It is derived from the Greek word "axios", meaning "axle" or "pivot".
Therefore, the combination of these two words, "sagittal axis", refers to the imaginary line around which a rotational movement occurs in the sagittal plane or a plane that divides the body into left and right halves.
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