Skeletal System Vocabulary

These flashcards cover key vocabulary related to the skeletal system, including definitions of important terms.

Appendicular

This type of skeleton includes the arms, legs, and pelvic girdle.

Diaphysis

The shaft of long bones.

Epiphysis

The ends of long bones.

Scoliosis

Lateral curvature of the spine.

Axial

This skeleton includes the skull, rib cage, and vertebral column.

Green stick fracture

A type of closed fracture; bone is bent; break incomplete.

Dislocation

The bone is out of joint or out of the socket.

Periosteum

The hard, outer covering of the bone.

Calcium

A mineral that is stored in the bone.

Transverse fracture

A complete horizontal break of the bone; skin is closed.

Red marrow

Material that produces blood cells in the spongy bone.

Yellow marrow

Material that stores fat/adipose tissue in the bone.

Fibrous joint

An immovable joint found in the sutures of the skull.

Synovial joint

A freely movable joint; e.g., knee, hip, shoulder, fingers, toes.

Cartilaginous joint

A slightly movable joint; e.g., vertebrae, sternum.

Compound fracture

A complete fracture where the skin is broken and the bone is protruding out.

Rheumatoid arthritis

An autoimmune disorder causing inflammation of the joints, leading to deformed and painful joints.

Kyphosis

Abnormal curvature of the spine causing humpback appearance.

Lordosis

Abnormal curvature of the spine causing swayback appearance.

Osteoporosis

Loss of bone density, resulting in thin and brittle bones.

Vitamin D

Essential for bone formation, comes from the sun.

Functions of the Skeletal System

Includes framework, protection, levers, storage, and blood cell production.