fixatoren

Fixatoren, in anatomical and medical usage, refers to muscles or devices that stabilize a body part to permit efficient movement or healing. In physiology, a fixator is a muscle or group that immobilizes a segment of the body (for example the trunk or a limb) so that other muscles can act with greater control and without unwanted motion. Fixators are considered stabilizers or neutralizers within the muscular system and often work through co-contraction to stiffen a joint or segment, enhancing precision and energy efficiency during tasks.

In orthopedics and rehabilitation, the term fixator also denotes external fixation devices used to immobilize and align bones during healing. External fixators comprise pins or wires inserted into bone and connected to an external frame, providing temporary stability for complex fractures, severe soft-tissue injuries, deformity correction, or limb lengthening. They require meticulous pin-site care and monitoring for complications such as infection, loosening, or irritation.

Common examples of fixators in movement include the shoulder and spine stabilizers: trapezius, rhomboids, and serratus anterior act as scapular fixators during arm movements, while the transversus abdominis and multifidus stabilize the trunk. Pelvic stabilization during gait is aided by gluteal muscles. In practice, strengthening fixators can improve movement efficiency and reduce compensatory patterns, whereas in fracture care, appropriate use of external fixators supports proper alignment and healing.