University of Mount Saint Vincent 8

Joint Classifications and Fractures

• Fibrous Joints (Syndesmosis Joints):

  • These joints have limited movement.

  • Example: Sutures in the skull.

• Jefferson Fracture:

  • Also known as a burst fracture.

  • Affects the C1 vertebra (Atlas).

  • Important for rotation of the head with the axis (C2).

• Atlas and Axis:

  • The joint between the atlas and axis is a pivot joint.

Vertebral Curvatures

• Abnormal Curves in the Spine:

  • Kyphosis: Abnormal forward curvature of the spine.

  • At birth, individuals have one primary kyphotic curve.

  • Development of secondary curvatures occurs during crawling.

  • Secondary Curvatures: Cervical, thoracic, and lumbar curvatures.

• Hyperlordosis vs. Hypolordosis:

  • Hyperlordosis: Increased sway back, often due to pregnancy or abdominal obesity.

  • Hypolordosis: Reduced lumbar curve.

Anatomy and Differences in Pelvis

• Bone Structure:

  • The sacrum is the bone that sits between both hips.

• Male vs. Female Pelvis:

  • Females: Wider, more rounded pelvic inlet to facilitate childbirth.

  • Males: More acute pelvic inlet (less than 90 degrees), less adaptable.

Fontanels and Skin Structure

• Fontanels:

  • Soft spots on an infant's skull that begin to harden between ages 2-4.

  • Important for brain growth and passage through the birthing canal.

• Skin Layers:

  • Epidermis Layers: Stratum corneum, granulosum, spinosum, basale.

  • In hairless areas (palms/soles of feet): Lucidum is found between corneum and granulosum layers.

Academic Success and Strategy

• Grade Assessment:

  • Grades come from lecture, lab, and recitation—combined into one score out of a thousand.

  • Students should monitor performance and seek advising if struggling.

  • Emphasis on doing well in practicals and presentations to improve grades.