Interóseo

Interóseo is a term derived from Latin, meaning "between the bones." In anatomy, it typically refers to muscles or ligaments situated in the spaces between bones. The most well-known examples are the interosseous muscles of the hand and foot. These muscles play a crucial role in fine motor control, particularly in spreading and bringing the fingers and toes together.

The dorsal interossei muscles are located on the back of the hand, originating from the metacarpals and inserting into the phalanges. They are responsible for abduction of the fingers (moving them away from the midline of the hand). The palmar interossei muscles are on the palm side of the hand, also originating from the metacarpals and inserting into the phalanges. They are responsible for adduction of the fingers (moving them towards the midline). Both sets of interossei are innervated by the ulnar nerve.

In the foot, similarly, interosseous muscles are found between the metatarsals and aid in toe movement, contributing to stability and the ability to grip surfaces. Ligaments can also be described as interosseous if they connect two bones across a space, such as the interosseous membrane between the radius and ulna in the forearm, or the tibia and fibula in the lower leg. These membranes provide structural support and allow for muscle attachments. The term interosseous is therefore a descriptive anatomical term indicating a specific location or relationship between skeletal elements.