Anatomy and Physiology - The Skeletal System

Flashcards covering key concepts, functions, and terms from the skeletal system lecture.

What is the anatomical position?

Standing straight up, facing the observer, feet flat on the ground, arms at the side, palms facing forwards.

What are the five main types of bone?

Long, Short, Flat, Irregular, Sesamoid

What is the function of long bones?

Leverage, support, blood cell production

What type of joint allows for free movement?

Synovial joint

What is kyphosis?

Excessive outwards curvature of the thoracic region, often causes a 'hunchback' appearance

What are osteoblasts?

Cells that make new bone, synthesize protein and collagen, and bring calcium into the bone

What is the primary function of the skeletal system?

Support, Protection, Attachment for skeletal muscle, Blood cell production, Mineral storage, Leverage, Weight bearing, Reduce friction

What type of joint is found at the elbow?

Hinge joint

What is the main function of ligaments?

To hold the bones together and keep them in place

What is osteoarthritis?

A common type of arthritis caused by general wear and tear, leading to inflammation of the synovial joint

What happens at the epiphyseal plate?

It allows the long bone to grow longer during childhood until reaching maturity

What is the role of synovial fluid in joints?

To lubricate the joint, reduce friction between bones, and provide nutrients to the articular cartilage

What is osteoporosis?

A condition characterized by weakening of bones due to a loss of calcium or lack of vitamin D

What does the vertebral column consist of?

33 irregular bones called vertebrae

What is the role of osteoclasts?

To break down bone tissue and help regulate blood calcium levels

What classification does a fixed joint fall under?

Fibrous joint.

What is the purpose of the bursa in a synovial joint?

To provide cushioning between tendons and bones to prevent friction

Name an example of a short bone.

Carpals

What type of movement is abduction?

Movement away from the midline of the body

What type of movement is abduction?

Movement away from the midline of the body

What is adduction?

Movement towards the midline of the body

What is flexion?

Bending a joint to decrease the angle between two body parts

What is extension?

Straightening a joint to increase the angle between two body parts

What is rotation?

Movement around a central axis

What is circumduction?

Circular movement of a limb that encompasses flexion, extension, abduction, and adduction

What is the difference between medial and lateral movements?

Medial movement is towards the midline of the body, whereas lateral movement is away from the midline

What is hyper-extension?

Extension of a body part beyond its normal range of motion.

What is plantarflexion?

Movement that decreases the angle between the foot and the leg, pointing the toes downwards.

What is dorsiflexion?

Movement that increases the angle between the foot and the leg, raising the toes upwards.

What is lateral flexion?

Bending the body to the side.

What are some ways to reduce the risk of osteoporosis?

1. Engage in regular weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercises.

2. Ensure adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D

3. Maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables.

Why is calcium important for bone health?

Calcium is essential for maintaining bone density and strength, helping to prevent osteoporosis.

What role does vitamin D play in bone health?

Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, which is crucial for maintaining strong bones and preventing osteoporosis.

How does weight-bearing exercise benefit bones?

Weight-bearing exercise stimulates bone formation and helps maintain bone density, reducing the risk of osteoporosis.

What impact can resistance training have on children's bones?

Resistance training (weight training) can be harmful to children because it may damage the epiphyseal plates at the end of long bones, which are still growing.

What are epiphyseal plates?

Epiphyseal plates are growth plates located at the ends of long bones; damage to these plates during childhood can lead to stunted bone growth.

Why is it important to be cautious with weight training in children?

Caution is necessary because putting too much force on growing bones can result in injuries that affect proper growth and development.

What happens to bone mineral density with sustained training?

With sustained training, bone mineral density increases, producing stronger bones that are more resistant to force.

How does sustained training affect the strength of ligaments?

Sustained training increases the strength of ligaments, allowing them to stretch further than normal and become more pliable.

What is a benefit of increased flexibility from sustained training?

Increased flexibility from sustained training can enhance overall mobility and reduce the risk of injuries.

How do stronger bones adapt to physical training?

Stronger bones adapt to physical training by becoming more resistant to impact and stress, improving performance in physical activities.

What effect does increased synovial fluid have on joints?

Increased synovial fluid leads to better lubrication of joints.

How does synovial fluid viscosity change with increased production?

The fluid becomes less viscous.

What is a benefit of increased synovial fluid on range of motion?

It contributes to an increased range of motion.

What is one nutritional benefit of increased synovial fluid?

It provides more nutrients to the articular cartilage.

What is the effect of increased uptake of minerals within the bones?

It leads to increased bone density.

What minerals does the body absorb more of to strengthen bones?

The body absorbs more minerals like calcium.