The Muscular System

Medical Terminology: Unit 2, Chapter 4 (RTerry)

adhesion

A band of fibrous tisse that holds structures together abnormally. *Can form in muscles/internal organs, result from injury/surgery.

ataxia

The lack of muscle coordination during voluntary movements. *Often shaky/unsteady, frequently caused by abnormal activity in the cerebellum.

atonic

Lacking normal tone or strength.

atrophy

Weakness or wearing away of body tissues and structures.

bradykinesia

Extreme slowness in movement. *A symptom of Parkinson’s disease.

carpal tunnel syndrome

Symptoms occur when the tendons that pass through the carpal into the hand are overused and become inflamed and swollen.

chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS)

A debilitating and complex disorder characterized be profound fatigue that is not improved by bed rest and may be made worse by physical or mental activity.

compartment syndrome

The compression of nerves and blood vessels due to swelling within the compartment (an enclosed space created by the fascia that separates groups of muscles in the arm or leg).

contracture

The permanent tightening of fascia, muscles, tendons, ligaments, or skin that occurs when normally elastic connective tissues are replaced with nonelastic fibrous tissues.

dyskinesia

The distortion or impairment of voluntary movement resulting in fragmented or jerky motions.

dystonia

A movement disorder characterized by the involuntary and sometimes repetitive contraction of certain muscles.

electromyography

A diagnostic test that measures the electrical activity within muscle fibers in response to nerve stimulation.

epicondylitis

Inflammation of the tissues surrounding the elbow. AKA - tennis/golfer’s elbow.

fasciitis

Inflammation of the fascia.

fibromyalgia

A debilitating chronic condition characterized by fatigue; diffuse or specific muscle, joint, or bone pain; and a wide range of other symptoms