Medical Terminology: A Living Language - Musculoskeletal System

Flashcards covering key terminology and concepts from the musculoskeletal system chapter of medical terminology.

Skeletal System

The internal framework of the body consisting of 206 bones, which supports the body, protects organs, and produces blood cells.

Combining Form

A combination of a root word and a vowel used to create medical terms; examples include 'arthr/o' (joint) and 'oste/o' (bone).

Synovial Joint

A type of joint that allows for free movement, characterized by a synovial membrane, and examples include ball-and-socket joints and hinge joints.

Axial Skeleton

The part of the skeleton that supports the head, neck, spine, chest, and trunk.

Appendicular Skeleton

The part of the skeleton that includes the pectoral girdle, upper extremities, pelvic girdle, and lower extremities.

Osteoblast

A cell that produces bone during the process of ossification.

Osteoclast

A type of cell that breaks down bone tissue.

Bursa

A sac-like structure containing lubricant; it reduces friction between tissues in joints.

Meniscus

Crescent-shaped cartilage pads found between bones that provide cushioning and support.

Muscle Tissue

Types of tissues that can contract to produce movement; includes skeletal, smooth, and cardiac muscle.

Fracture

A break in a bone, classified by its nature such as closed, compound, comminuted, or greenstick.

Osteoporosis

A condition characterized by a decrease in bone density, resulting in fragile bones that are prone to fracture.

Rheumatoid arthritis

An autoimmune condition that causes chronic inflammation of joints, leading to pain and deformity.

Arthroplasty

Surgical procedure to repair or replace a damaged joint.

Tendon

A fibrous connective tissue that attaches muscle to bone.

Ligament

A strong band of connective tissue that connects bones to other bones at a joint.

Pathology

The study and diagnosis of disease; includes understanding of conditions affecting muscles and bones.

Myopathy

A general term for muscle disease.

Chondromalacia

Softening of the cartilage, commonly affecting the knee.

Anatomy

The branch of science concerned with the bodily structure of humans and animals.

Physiology

The branch of biology that deals with the normal functions of living organisms and their parts.