metacarpophalangeal joint
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- Anatomy: The metacarpophalangeal joint is the knuckle joint of the hand, located between the metacarpal bones of the palm and the proximal phalanges of the fingers. It is a condyloid joint that allows for flexion, extension, abduction, and adduction.
Usage
- The metacarpophalangeal joint is crucial for gripping and fine motor control of the hand.
- Arthritis commonly affects the metacarpophalangeal joint, causing pain and stiffness in the knuckles.
- A boxer's fracture typically involves the neck of the metacarpal bone just behind the metacarpophalangeal joint.
Advanced Usage
- Clinical/Medical Context: The term is primarily used in technical, anatomical, and medical descriptions. It is often abbreviated as MCP joint in clinical notes and discussions.
- The patient has reduced range of motion in the second and third metacarpophalangeal joints.
- Plural Form: The plural is metacarpophalangeal joints.
Variants and Related Words
- MCP joint (n.): The standard abbreviation for metacarpophalangeal joint.
- Knuckle (n.): The common, non-technical term for the metacarpophalangeal joint, especially when the fist is clenched.
- Interphalangeal joint (n.): The finger joint located to (beyond) the metacarpophalangeal joint, between the phalangeal bones.
Synonyms
- Knuckle (in common, non-technical usage)
- MCP joint (abbreviation)
Notes on Meaning
- The reference context "a joint of a finger when the fist is closed" accurately describes the visible and functional aspect of the metacarpophalangeal joint. When making a fist, these joints form the prominent knuckles.
Noun
- a joint of a finger when the fist is closed