etujalka

Etujalka refers to the front leg of an animal. This term is commonly used in zoology and veterinary medicine to distinguish it from the hind leg, or takajalka. The anatomy and function of the etujalka can vary significantly depending on the species and its mode of locomotion. For example, in quadrupeds, the etujalka plays a crucial role in supporting body weight, steering, and sometimes in digging or climbing. In animals that are bipedal, such as humans and birds, the forelimbs may have evolved into arms or wings for manipulation or flight, respectively, though the term etujalka might still be used in comparative anatomy. The structure of the etujalka typically includes bones such as the humerus (upper arm bone), radius and ulna (forearm bones), and the carpals, metacarpals, and phalanges (bones of the wrist, hand, and fingers or toes). Muscles and ligaments in the etujalka allow for a wide range of movements, including flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, and rotation. Understanding the anatomy and biomechanics of the etujalka is important for diagnosing and treating injuries or diseases affecting these limbs.