Skeletal System and Bone Development

Flashcards covering key concepts related to the skeletal system, bone development, and anatomy.

Skeletal System

The organ system that comprises bones, cartilage, ligaments, and tendons, responsible for support, protection, movement, and blood cell production.

Axial Skeleton

The part of the skeletal system that consists of the skull, vertebral column, ribs, and sternum.

Appendicular Skeleton

The part of the skeletal system that includes the pectoral girdle, pelvic girdle, and the bones of the upper and lower limbs.

Bone Development

The process through which bones form and mature, beginning in utero and continuing until approximately age 20.

Epiphyseal Plates

Growth plates found at the ends of long bones that allow for elongation during bone development.

Osteoblasts

Cells responsible for bone formation.

Osteoclasts

Cells responsible for bone resorption.

Types of Fractures

Different classifications of bone fractures, such as compression, spiral, and greenstick fractures.

Synovial Joint

A type of joint characterized by a fluid-filled joint cavity that allows for a wide range of motion.

Flexion

Movement that decreases the angle between two body parts.

Extension

Movement that increases the angle between two body parts.

Abduction

Movement away from the midline of the body.

Adduction

Movement toward the midline of the body.

Vertebrae

The individual bones that make up the vertebral column.

Cranial Sutures

Fibrous joints that connect the bones of the skull.

Fontanels

Soft spots in the neonatal skull that allow for flexibility during birth and growth of the brain.

Viscerocranium

The facial skeleton, consisting of 14 bones including the jaw and nasal bones.

Neurocranium

The part of the skull that encases the brain, made up of 8 bones.

Costal Margin

The lower edge of the rib cage formed by the bottom ribs.

Thoracic Cage

The bony structure that encircles the thoracic cavity, protecting organs like the heart and lungs.