Lecture Notes on Human Skeletal System

Flashcards created to help review key terms and concepts related to the human skeletal system.

Nucleus pulposus

The inner gelatinous mass of an intervertebral disc.

Anulus fibrosus

The outer ring of fibrocartilage in an intervertebral disc.

Fibrocartilage

A type of cartilage that is very important during pregnancy.

Atlas (C1)

The cervical vertebra that supports the head.

Axis (C2)

The cervical vertebra known for the dens or odontoid process.

Bifid process

A forked spinous process found in cervical vertebrae C2 to C6.

Transverse foramen

An anatomical feature only found in cervical vertebrae.

Thoracic vertebrae

The 12 vertebrae in the middle segment of the vertebral column which pair with ribs.

Sacrum

A bony plate that forms the posterior wall of the pelvic cavity.

Coccyx

Usually consists of four small vertebrae that fuse by age 20 to 30.

Sternum

The breast bone in the thoracic region.

True ribs

Ribs 1-7 that attach directly to the sternum.

False ribs

Ribs 8-12 that do not attach directly to the sternum.

Floating ribs

Ribs 11-12 that do not attach to the sternum or any other ribs.

Pectoral girdle

Consists of the clavicle and scapula to support the arms.

Acromion

The plate-like extension of the scapular spine that articulates with the clavicle.

Glenohumeral joint

The shoulder joint formed where the scapula articulates with the humerus.

Iliac crest

The superior crest of the hip bone.

Acetabulum

The hip socket in the hip bone.

Obturator foramen

A large hole below the acetabulum in the hip bone.

Calcaneus

The largest tarsal bone located in the ankle.

Talus

The most superior tarsal bone.

Metatarsals

The long bones in the foot, including the metatarsal of the great toe.

Phalanges

The bones in the fingers and toes; includes proximal and distal phalanx.

Fibula

A slender lateral strut that helps stabilize the ankle.

Lateral malleolus

The bony knob on the lateral side of the ankle.

Glenoid Cavity

Shallow socket

Coracoid Process

Provides attachment for tendon of the biceps