Abduction

Movement in which the articulating bone moves along the Frontal/Coronal Plane, away from the Longitudinal Axis of the body.

Abdominopelvic Cavity

The space within the Abdomen and Pelvis

Abdomen

The part of the Trunk between the Thorax and the Pelvis.

Pectoral

The term pectoral refers to the chest or breast region. In anatomy, the pectoralis major and pectoralis minor are the primary muscles of this area, responsible for various movements of the humerus and shoulder. The pectoral girdle, consisting of the scapula and clavicle, connects the upper limbs to the axial skeleton, providing a stable yet mobile base for arm function.

Fibula

The fibula, also known as the calf bone, is the slender, lateral bone of the lower leg. While it is not a primary weight-bearing bone like the tibia, it provides essential attachment points for several muscles of the leg and foot. The distal end of the fibula forms the lateral malleolus, the prominent bony bump on the outer side of the ankle, which is vital for ankle stability.

Tibia

The tibia, or shinbone, is the larger and stronger of the two bones in the lower leg. It is the second longest bone in the human body and bears the majority of the body’s weight. The tibia articulates with the femur at the knee joint and with the talus bone at the ankle joint. In massage therapy, the tissues medial to the tibial shaft are frequently addressed to relieve tension in the lower leg.

Ulnaris

Ulnaris is an anatomical term referring to structures associated with the ulna, the medial bone of the forearm. This includes the ulnar nerve (often called the “funny bone” when compressed at the elbow), the ulnar artery, and muscles like the flexor carpi ulnaris. Understanding these structures is crucial for massage therapists to avoid impingement and effectively treat forearm tension.