AUXILIARY MUSCLES Meaning and
Definition
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Auxiliary muscles refer to a group of muscles that assist the primary muscles in carrying out specific movements or actions. These muscles are not directly responsible for the main action but contribute to the efficiency and effectiveness of the movement. They act as supporting structures or secondary players in the activity, adding strength, stability, or control.
In the context of the human body, auxiliary muscles usually come into play during strenuous physical activities, such as heavy lifting, forceful breathing, or intense exercise. The primary muscles may not possess enough strength or power to complete the task on their own, requiring assistance from auxiliary muscles.
For example, during heavy weightlifting, the primary muscles involved are typically the larger ones like the quadriceps in the legs or the pectoralis major in the chest. However, the smaller muscles surrounding these primary muscles, such as the gluteus medius in the legs or the serratus anterior in the chest, act as auxiliary muscles to provide additional stability and control during the lift.
Similarly, in respiratory actions like forceful breathing, the diaphragm serves as the primary muscle responsible for inhalation. However, auxiliary muscles, such as the intercostal muscles and the muscles of the neck, assist in expanding the ribcage and creating a stronger inhalation.
Overall, auxiliary muscles play a crucial role in various bodily actions, supporting the primary muscles and enhancing their performance.
Etymology of AUXILIARY MUSCLES
The word "auxiliary" originates from the Latin word "auxiliarius", meaning "helping" or "supporting". It entered the English language in the late 16th century.
The term "muscles" is derived from the Latin word "musculus", which means "little mouse". This term was used to describe muscles due to their shape, which resembled the movement of a mouse under the skin.
Therefore, "auxiliary muscles" refers to the supporting or assisting muscles that aid in respiration or other bodily functions, in addition to the primary muscles involved.
