Three-headed muscle
Musculus triceps
- Related terms: Threeheaded muscle
Definition
A three-headed muscle is a type of skeletal muscle that has three distinct heads of origin, each arising from a different anatomical site. These heads typically converge into a single muscle belly or a common tendon, allowing the muscle to exert force across one or more joints.
Example
Triceps brachii (posterior arm) — has long, lateral, and medial heads; acts as the primary extensor of the elbow.
References
Gray, H. (2016) Gray’s anatomy the anatomical basis of clinical practice. 41st edition. Edited by S. Standring. New York: Elsevier.
