Introduction to the Skeletal System

These flashcards cover key vocabulary related to the skeletal system, including bone types, functions, fractures, and cellular processes involved in bone health.

Skeletal System

The collection of bones and cartilage that provides structure, support, and protection to the body.

Axial Skeleton

The part of the skeleton that includes the skull, vertebral column, and rib cage.

Appendicular Skeleton

The part of the skeleton that includes the limbs and the pelvic and shoulder girdles.

Long Bones

Bones that are longer than they are wide, primarily designed for support and movement.

Flat Bones

Bones that are thin and flat, often serving as protective structures for organs, e.g., ribs and skull.

Short Bones

Bones that are roughly cube-shaped and provide stability and support with limited motion, e.g., wrist and ankle bones.

Irregular Bones

Bones with complex shapes that do not fit into the other categories, e.g., vertebrae.

Sesamoid Bones

Bones that develop within tendons and serve to protect them, e.g., the patella.

Osteocytes

Mature bone cells that maintain the bone matrix.

Osteoblasts

Bone-forming cells that synthesize new bone tissue.

Osteoclasts

Bone-resorbing cells that break down bone tissue.

Fracture

A break in the continuity of a bone.

Closed Fracture

A fracture where the skin remains intact.

Open Fracture

A fracture where the broken bone pierces through the skin.

Comminuted Fracture

A fracture where the bone is broken into multiple pieces.

Impacted Fracture

A fracture where bone fragments are driven into each other.

Greenstick Fracture

A partial fracture in which one side of the bone is broken and the other side is bent, common in children.

Hematoma

A localized collection of blood outside of blood vessels, often forming in response to a fracture.

Fibrocartilaginous Callus

A transitional tissue that forms to bridge a fracture site during healing.

Osteoporosis

A condition characterized by decreased bone density, leading to weakened bones and increased risk of fractures.

Red Bone Marrow

Tissue found within certain bones that produces red blood cells.

Yellow Bone Marrow

Tissue found within certain bones that primarily stores fat.

Calcium Absorption

The process by which calcium is absorbed by the body for various functions, critical for bone health.