key term - Insertion

Definition

In the context of anatomy and physiology, particularly within the chapter on The Muscular System, insertion refers to the point at which a muscle attaches to a bone, tendon, or other muscle that moves when the muscle contracts. It is typically located on the bone that moves most during the muscle's action.

Related terms

Origin:

The fixed attachment site of a muscle to bone or another structure, from which the muscle extends to reach its insertion.

Contractions: The tightening or shortening of muscles that results in movement or tension within those muscles.

Tendons:

Tough bands of fibrous connective tissue that usually connect muscles to bones and are capable of withstanding tension