What are the three main layers of the skin from superficial to deep?
Epidermis, Dermis, and Hypodermis (subcutaneous layer).
Which layer is the outermost, thinnest, and made of keratinized stratified squamous epithelium?
The Epidermis protects from bacteria and friction.
Which skin layer provides structural integrity, contains blood vessels, nerves, glands, and hair follicles?
The Dermis, the thickest layer, composed of fibrous connective tissue.
What is the primary function and composition of the Hypodermis (subcutaneous layer)?
Stores fat and blood vessels; composed of areolar and adipose (fat) tissue, it acts as insulation and cushioning.
Which specific layer of the epidermis is found only on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet?
The Stratum lucidum, which provides extra protection to friction.
What cell type makes up 90% of the epidermis and produces keratin?
Keratinocytes.
Name the two bones of the lower leg.
The Tibia (shin bone) and the Fibula (calf bone).
What is the largest bone in the foot that also forms part of the ankle joint and carries body weight?
The Talus.
What is the formal name for the “heel bone”?
The Calcaneus.
What is the general term for the five long bones in the foot located between the ankle bones and the toes?
Metatarsals.
What are the major arteries that supply blood to the leg and foot?
The femoral artery becomes the popliteal artery, which branches into the anterior tibial, posterior tibial, and fibular arteries.
What is the function of the hamstrings muscle group?
They flex the leg (bend the knee) and medially/laterally rotate the leg when the knee is flexed.
Where is the plantar aponeurosis located and what is its function?
It is attached to the tubercles of the calcaneus (heel bone) and forms part of the weight-bearing structure of the foot arch.
