Skeletal, Muscular, and Nervous Systems

Vocabulary flashcards covering the anatomy, physiology, and pathology of the skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems, along with introductory circulatory concepts.

Joint

A place in the body where 2 or more bones come together.

Ligaments

Connective tissue found in joints that connects bone to bone.

Cartilage

Connective tissue that sits between bones to act as a cushion.

Tendons

Tissues that connect muscles to bones and allow for movement at the body's joints.

Ossification

The process by which bones are formed, renewed, and repaired.

Sprain

An injury caused by damage or stretching to ligaments.

Strain

An injury resulting from the tearing of muscle fibers or tendons.

R.I.C.E. Procedure

A treatment protocol for minor skeletal and muscular injuries standing for Rest, Ice, Compress, and Elevate.

Scoliosis

A condition characterized by an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine.

Osteoporosis

A disease generally developing in older adults characterized by brittle or weak bones, which can be minimized or delayed by calcium consumption and regular weight-bearing activities.

Muscle Fibers

Hundreds of long, specialized cells that make up muscular tissue.

Muscular Atrophy

A condition in which muscles shrink in size.

Hernia

An injury occurring when an organ or tissue protrudes through the abdominal wall.

Cardiac Muscle

Involuntary muscle tissue found exclusively in the heart.

Skeletal Muscle

Voluntary muscle tissue attached to bones that facilitates body movement.

Smooth Muscle

Involuntary muscle tissue located within internal organs.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

The division of the nervous system composed of the brain and spinal cord.

Neuron

A specialized cell designed to receive and pass along information throughout the body, enabling communication between the brain and body.

Dendrites

Branching structures extending off the cell body of a neuron that receive incoming signals.

Axon

The elongated portion of a neuron that transmits electrical impulses away from the cell body.

Cerebellum

The region of the brain responsible for coordinating voluntary movements of the skeletal muscles.

Plasma

The liquid, fluid component of blood.

Platelets

Blood cells responsible for causing blood clotting.

Hemoglobin

An oxygen-carrying protein found within red blood cells.