The text discusses the anatomy and function of the wrist, particularly the transverse band called the Carpus and its operation through various muscles. It describes the movement of all five fingers, stressing the need for specific muscles to allow their swift function, especially in grasping. The text also mentions three key muscles responsible for the fingers' movement: Palmaris, Sublimis, and Profundus.
Axle and Service of the Muscles
35. The transverse band of the wrist, known as the Carpus. This is bent, straightened, and moved to the side by the two flexors (25) and the two extensors (32). This band is otherwise called the Forehand: See the illustration A.B. and distinguish it from the subsequent 35 (on the Chest) because this number is accidentally doubled.
Function and Place of the Muscles of the Hand and Those Moving Them
Because the hand primarily serves for grasping and thus must move very swiftly, it necessarily requires various muscles; Since we cannot easily indicate these on the small size of our illustrations, we will only provide a brief description of them.
The movements of the hand occur through all five fingers which are bent, extended, and brought together. The muscles that move the four fingers, such as the index finger or the thumb, have their own specific muscles required.
All four fingers bend through three muscles, known as Palmaris, Sublimis, and Profundus. Palmaris starts from the innermost protrusion of the Humerus (25), spreads broadly across the entire palm, and inserts into the first bone of the fingers; serving both to move them and to ...
Translation Notes
Forehand: This term is used here in an anatomical sense, likely referring to the area of the hand by the wrist.
Flexors and Extensors: These terms are translated here to refer to muscles that bend (flex) and straighten (extend) the wrist.
Index Finger or Thumb: Indicating the necessity of specific muscles for their movement.