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== Pronator Quadratus Muscle ==

The '''Pronator Quadratus Muscle''' (pronounced pro-nay-tor kwah-drah-tus) is a square-shaped muscle located in the distal forearm. It plays a crucial role in the pronation of the forearm, allowing the palm of the hand to face downwards or backwards.

=== Etymology ===

The term "Pronator Quadratus" is derived from Latin, where "Pronator" refers to turning over and "Quadratus" signifies square, describing the shape of the muscle.

=== Anatomy ===

The Pronator Quadratus Muscle originates from the distal quarter of the anterior surface of the [[Ulna]] and inserts into the distal quarter of the anterior surface of the [[Radius]]. It is the only muscle that attaches solely to the bones of the forearm, making it a unique muscle in the human body.

=== Function ===

The primary function of the Pronator Quadratus Muscle is to pronate the forearm. It accomplishes this by pulling the lateral side of the radius towards the ulna, causing the radius to rotate around the ulna and turn the hand so that the palm faces downwards or backwards.

=== Related Terms ===

* [[Pronation]]: The act of turning the palm of the hand downwards or backwards.
* [[Supination]]: The opposite of pronation, turning the palm upwards or forwards.
* [[Radius]]: One of the two large bones of the forearm, on the thumb side.
* [[Ulna]]: The other large bone of the forearm, on the side of the little finger.

=== See Also ===

* [[List of muscles of the human body]]
* [[Forearm]]

[[Category:Muscles of the upper limb]]
[[Category:Muscles of the forearm]]
[[Category:Human anatomy]]

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