Study - Health Science

Terminology of the Skeletal System

  • Servant: Refers to a term or concept that may not be illustrated here directly.

  • Appendicular Skeleton: Comprised of limbs and the bones that connect them to the body (the shoulder and hip girdles).

    • Wrist Bones: The 8 small bones in the wrist are collectively known as carpals.

    • Second Largest Bone: The femur is the second largest bone in the human body and it connects to the scapula to form a ball and socket joint.

Hematopoiesis

  • Definition: The process of blood cell formation.

    • Hemo: Prefix that signifies blood, which is vital for understanding various medical terms related to blood and its related disorders.

Common Bone-related Conditions

  • Gout: A form of arthritis characterized by sudden and severe pain, often in the joints, due to high uric acid levels.

  • Osteoporosis: A condition that weakens bones, making them fragile and more likely to fracture.

    • Example Case: An elderly grandmother with a fracture and shorter stature may indicate osteoporosis, as it can lead to bone density loss over time.

  • Other Disorders: Conditions related to posture and structure include:

    • Scoliosis: A sideways curvature of the spine.

    • Kyphosis: A condition in which the spine curves outward excessively, resulting in a hunchback appearance.

    • Lordosis: An excessive inward curve of the spine.

Joint Types

  • Elbow and Knee: Both are classified as hinge joints, allowing for limited movement primarily in one direction (flexion and extension).

Injury Mechanisms

  • Radioulnar Fractures: A situation where the radius (one of the forearm bones) breaks and pierces through the skin.

  • Posture Issues: Poor postural habits (like sitting for long periods) can lead to shoulder rounding and conditions like kyphosis.

Function of the Skeletal System

  • Protection of Major Organs: Bones such as those in the skull, ribs, and pelvis protect vital organs, including the brain and heart.

Conditions Related to Cartilage Wear

  • Arthritis: Triggered by wear and tear on the cartilage at a joint, leading to pain and stiffness.

Suspected Fracture Cases

  • Examples of Fractures: A hip fracture (head of the femur) in an elderly patient is often related to osteoporosis due to decreased bone mass.