Appendicular Skeleton

Appendicular Skeleton Topics

Practice Fill in the Blank Statements and Questions

  • The clavicle forms a joint at its lateral end with the acromion of the scapula and at its medial end with the sternum.
  • The scapula forms a joint with the humerus (specifically at the glenoid cavity) and clavicle.
  • Does the scapula form a joint with the ribs? No, the scapula does not form a direct joint with the ribs; instead, it is attached to the thoracic cage through muscle and connective tissue.
  • The humerus forms a joint at its proximal end with the scapula at the glenohumeral joint and at its distal end with the radius and ulna (leading to the elbow joint).
  • The radius forms a joint at its distal end with the carpal bones, specifically with the scaphoid and lunate bones.

Name the 8 Carpal Bones

  1. Scaphoid
  2. Lunate
  3. Triquetrum
  4. Pisiform
  5. Trapezium
  6. Trapezoid
  7. Capitate
  8. Hamate

Diagram of the Hand

  • All components in the hand are as follows:
    • Metacarpals: 5 bones
    • Proximal Phalanges: 5 bones
    • Middle Phalanges: 4 bones (missing in the thumb)
    • Distal Phalanges: 5 bones

Total Number of Phalanges in One Hand

  • There are a total of 14 phalanges in one hand.

What is the Pollex? What is the Hallux?

  • Pollex: The pollex is the anatomical term for the thumb.
  • Hallux: The hallux is the anatomical term for the big toe.

What is the Acromion? On Which Bone is the Acromion Located?

  • Acromion: The acromion is a bony process on the scapula that extends over the shoulder joint. It forms a point of attachment for the clavicle.

How Many Bones Make Up the Os Coxa? List Them Below:

  • The os coxa (hip bone) is made up of three fused bones:
    1. Ilium
    2. Ischium
    3. Pubis

In Addition to the Os Coxae (Coxal Bones), What Other Bone(s) Make Up the Pelvis?

  • The pelvis also includes the sacrum and coccyx.

Differences Between the Male and Female Pelvis

  • Male pelvis:

    • Generally narrower and deeper
    • Pelvic inlet is heart-shaped
    • Larger, more robust overall structure

  • Female pelvis:

    • Generally wider and shallower
    • Pelvic inlet is oval-shaped
    • Designed for childbirth, allowing for broader birth canal

Why are Dimensions of the True Pelvis Important in Women?

  • The dimensions of the true pelvis are crucial in obstetrics as they determine the size of the birth canal and impact childbirth safety and delivery ease.

Which Part of the Pelvis Forms a Joint with the Femur?

  • The acetabulum of the pelvis forms a joint with the femur, creating the hip joint.

The Femur Articulates at Its Distal End With:

  • The femur articulates at its distal end with the tibia and patella (forming the knee joint).

The Tibia Articulates at Its Proximal End With:

  • The tibia articulates at its proximal end with the femur and at its distal end with the talus (also meeting the fibula).

The Medial "Ankle Bone" Is Actually Which Bone?

  • The medial ankle bone is called the talus.

The Heel Bone is Called the

  • The heel bone is called the calcaneus.

Name the Other Six Bones of the Tarsus:

  1. Navicular
  2. Medial cuneiform
  3. Intermediate cuneiform
  4. Lateral cuneiform
  5. Cuboid
  6. Talus

Which Important Tendon Inserts There?

  • The Achilles tendon (or calcaneal tendon) inserts into the calcaneus, facilitating plantarflexion of the foot.