Ipsilateral
Ipsilateral refers to the "same side." Ipsilateral is a term used to describe movements or structures that occur on the same side of the body. For example, the erector spinae assists with ipsilateral rotation (rotation to the same side of the body as the muscle).
- Opposite: Contralateral
- Synonym: Same side
For more examples of ipsilateral used in anatomy (including a video lecture), check out:
- Lesson 1: Anatomical Position and Anatomical Directions
- Lesson 3: Joint Actions
- Lesson 18: The Spine and Trunk Muscles
Terms referring to sides:
Examples of uses of the term "Ipsilateral"
- Joint Actions of the Spine : The spine is an interesting structure because it is central. The joint actions lateral flexion and rotation refer to side bending and twisting of the spine but do not indicate which direction. The words ipsilateral and contralateral are used to describe which direction the lateral flexion or rotation is occurring. For example, if discussing which direction a muscle will rotate the spine, and the muscle will rotate the spine to the same side as the muscle (e.g., the erector spinae), then the muscle is said to perform ipsilateral rotation.
- Exercise science: When performing a unilateral dumbbell chest press , it is not uncommon to feel like the ipsilateral leg has to "work harder" to maintain stability.