Bones, Joints, and Synovial Fluid Overview

Skeletal System

Supports movement, protection, and mineral storage.

Connective Tissue

Supports, binds, and protects organs.

Median Plane

Divides body into left and right halves.

Sagittal Plane

Divides body into unequal left and right parts.

Transverse Plane

Divides body into upper and lower parts.

Cranial

Toward the head or skull.

Caudal

Toward the tail or rear.

Dorsal

Toward the back or spine.

Ventral

Toward the belly or front.

Medial

Closer to the midline of the body.

Lateral

Farther from the midline of the body.

Superficial

Closer to the surface of the body.

Deep

Farther from the surface of the body.

Proximal

Closer to the point of attachment.

Distal

Farther from the point of attachment.

Long Bones

Found in limbs; support weight and movement.

Flat Bones

Protect organs; include skull and ribs.

Irregular Bones

Complex shapes; include vertebrae and facial bones.

Sesamoid Bones

Embedded in tendons; example is patella.

Axial Skeleton

Includes skull, vertebrae, and rib cage.

Appendicular Skeleton

Includes limbs and girdles.

Intervertebral Disc

Cushion of cartilage between vertebrae.

Haversian Systems

Bone structure with canals for blood vessels.

Osteoclasts

Bone cells that break down bone tissue.

Synovial Fluid

Lubricates and nourishes articular cartilage.

Joint Capsule

Two-layered structure enclosing a synovial joint.

Epiphyseal Plate

Growth plate in long bones for lengthening.