Chapter 07: Skeletal System

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to the skeletal system, including bone structure, types of joints, and functions.

Skeletal System

The organ system consisting of bones, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage that provides support, movement, and protection for the body's organs.

Osteocytes

Bone cells located within small cavities called lacunae.

Epiphyses

The ends of long bones that articulate with adjacent bones.

Diaphysis

The shaft of a long bone.

Medullary cavity

The hollow center of a long bone, filled with bone marrow.

Periosteum

A tough layer of dense connective tissue that covers the outer surface of a bone.

Hematopoiesis

The formation of blood cells, primarily occurring in the bone marrow.

Calcitonin

A hormone that helps regulate calcium levels in the blood, promoting calcium deposition in the bones.

Osteoclasts

Cells that break down bone tissue, releasing calcium into the bloodstream.

Synovial joints

Joints that allow for free movement and are characterized by a joint cavity filled with synovial fluid.

Fibrous joints

Joints connected by dense connective tissue that allow for little to no movement.

Cartilaginous joints

Joints connected by cartilage that allow for limited movement.

Hyoid bone

A U-shaped bone in the neck that supports the tongue and is not directly connected to any other bone.

Coxal bone

The hip bone that is made up of three parts: ilium, ischium, and pubis.

Acetabulum

The cup-shaped socket of the hip bone that receives the head of the femur.

Flexion

The act of bending parts at a joint, decreasing the angle between them.

Extension

The act of straightening parts at a joint, increasing the angle between them.

Abduction

Moving a body part away from the midline of the body.

Adduction

Moving a body part toward the midline of the body.

Inversion

Turning the sole of the foot medially.

Eversion

Turning the sole of the foot laterally.