Skeletal System and Bone Functions

This set of flashcards covers key concepts related to the skeletal system, bone types, cartilage types, and functions of bones necessary for understanding their physiology.

Functions of Bones

Support, protection, movement, mineral storage, blood cell formation, triglyceride storage.

Hyaline Cartilage

Most abundant type of skeletal cartilage; covers ends of bones at joints, connects ribs to sternum, forms the larynx, and supports the external nose.

Elastic Cartilage

Type of skeletal cartilage found in the ear and epiglottis.

Fibrocartilage

Highly compressible cartilage found in knees and discs between vertebrae.

Axial Skeleton

Comprises 80 bones including the skull, vertebrae, and rib cage.

Appendicular Skeleton

Comprises 126 bones including shoulder/arms and hip/legs.

Long Bones

Characterized by their length, support weight, and facilitate movement.

Short Bones

Provide stability and allow for some movement; found in the appendicular skeleton.

Flat Bones

Protect internal organs; include sternum, cranial bones, and ribs.

Sesamoid Bones

Bones embedded in tendons, protect tendons from wear and tear.

Irregular Bones

Protect the axial and appendicular skeleton; includes the skull, spine, and pelvic girdle.

Bone Markings

Features such as projections (facets or processes) and depressions (fossae, sinuses, foramina) essential for attachment and movement.

Compact Bone

Dense external layer of bone that provides strength.

Spongy Bone

Internal layer that contains marrow and is structured to prevent fractures.

Osteoblast

Bone-forming cell that produces osteoid.

Osteocyte

Mature bone cell that maintains bone matrix and regulates nutrients.

Osteoclast

Bone-resorbing cell that breaks down bone matrix.

Bone Homeostasis

The dynamic process of bone remodeling involving deposition and resorption of bone.

Parathyroid Hormone (PTH)

Hormone that increases blood calcium levels by stimulating osteoclasts.

Wolff’s Law

Principle stating that bone grows in response to the demands placed on it.

Bone Repair Stages

Four stages: hematoma formation, fibroblast and osteoblast activity, trabeculae formation, and remodeling.