Medical Terms Flashcards
Abdominocentesis
The surgical puncture of the abdominal cavity to remove fluid for diagnostic purposes
Acronym
A word formed from the initial letters of the major parts of a compound term
Acute
A condition that has a rapid onset, a severe course, and a relatively short duration
Angiography
The process of producing a radiographic study of the blood vessels after the injection of a contrast medium to make the blood vessels visible.
Appendectomy
Surgical removal of the appendix
Arteriosclerosis
Abnormal hardening of the walls of an artery or arteries
Arthralgia
Pain in a joint or joints
Colostomy
The surgical creation of an artificial excretory opening between the colon and the body surface
Cyanosis
Blue discoloration of the skin caused by a lack of adequate oxygen in the blood
Dermatologist
A physician who specializes in diagnosing and treating disorders of the skin
Diagnosis
The identification of a disease
Diarrhea
The frequent flow of loose or watery stools
Edema
Swelling caused by excess fluid in body tissues
Endarterial
Pertaining to the interior or lining of an artery
Eponym
A disease, structure, operation, or procedure named for the person who discovered or described it first
Erythrocyte
A mature red blood cell produced by the red bone marrow. Primary role is to transport oxygen to the tissues. This oxygen’s transported by hemoglobin, which is the oxygen-carrying blood protein pigment of the erythrocytes.
Fissure
A groove or cracklike sore of the skin; also a normal fold in the contours of the brain
Fistula
An abnormal passage, usually between two internal organs or leading from an organ to the surface of the body
Gastralgia
Pain in the stomach
Gastritis
Inflammation of the stomach
Gastroenteritis
Inflammation of the stomach and small intestine
Gastrosis
Any abnormal condition or disease of the stomach
Hemorrhage
The loss of a large amount of blood in a short time
Hepatomegaly
Abnormal enlargement of the liver
Hypertension
Higher-than-normal blood pressure. Secondary hypertension is caused by a different medical problem, such as kidney disorder or a tumor on the adrenal glands. When then other problem is resolved the secondary hypertension usually improves. Malignant hypertension is characterized by very high blood pressure. This condition, which can be fatal, is usually accompanied by damage to the organs, brain and optic nerves or failure of the heart and kidneys.
Hypotension
Lower-than-normal arterial blood pressure. Symptoms can include dizziness, light-headedness, or fainting. Orthostatic hypotension, aka postural hypotension is low blood pressure that occurs upon standing up. Orthodontic means relating to an upright or standing position.
Infection
Invasion of the body by a pathogenic organism
Inflammation
A localized response to an injury or destruction of tissues that is characterized by heat, redness, swelling and pain
Interstitial
Between, but not within, the parts of a tissue
Intramuscular
Within the muscle
Laceration
A torn, jagged wound or an accidental cut wound
Lesion
A pathologic change of the tissues due to disease or injury
Malaise
A feeling of general discomfort or uneasiness that is often the first indication of an infection or other disease
Mycosis
Any abnormal condition or disease caused by a fungus
Myelopathy
Any pathologic change or disease in the spinal cord
Myopathy
Any pathologic change or disease of muscle tissue
Myorrhexis
The rupture of a muscle
Natal
Pertaining to birth
Neonatology
Study of disorders of a newborn
Neurorrhaphy
Suturing together the ends of a severed nerve
Otorhinolaryngology
Study of the ears, nose and theoat
Palpation
An examination technique in which the examiner’s hands are used to feel the texture, size, consistency, and location of certain body parts
Palpitation
A pounding or racing heart
Pathology
The study of all aspects of diseases
Phalanges
The bones of the fingers and toes. Big toe has two phalanges and each of the others have 3.
Phalanx is a single finger or toe.
Poliomyelitis
A viral infection of the gray nerve tissue of the spinal cord
Prognosis
A prediction of the probable course and outcome of a disease
Pyoderma
Any acute, inflammatory, pus-forming bacterial skin infection
Pyrosis
Discomfort due to the regurgitation of stomach acid upward into the esophagus
Remission
The temporary, partial, or complete disappearance of the symptoms of a disease without having achieved a cure
Sign
Objective evidence of disease, such as a fever
Supination
The act of rotating the arm so that the palm of the hand is forward or upward
Suppuration
The formation or discharge of pus
Supracostal
Above or outside the ribs
Symptom
Subjective evidence of a disease, such as pain or a headache
Syndrome
A set of the signs and symptoms that occur together as part of a specific disease process
Tonsillitis
Inflammation of the tonsils
Trauma
Wound or injury
Triage
Medical screening of patients to determine their relative priority of need and the proper place of treatment
Viral
Pertaining to a virus
Abdominal cavity
The body cavity that contains the major organs of digestion
Adenectomy
The surgical removal of a gland
Adenocarcinoma
A malignant tumor that originated in glandular tissue
Adenoma
A benign tumor that arises in or resembles glandular tissue
Adenomalacia
Abnormal softening of a gland
Adenosclerosis
Abnormal hardening of a gland
Anaplasia
A change in the structure of cells and in their orientation to each other
Anatomy
The study of the structures of the body
Anomaly
A deviation from what is regarded as normal
Anterior
Situated in front
Aplasia
The defective development or congenital absence of an organ or tissue
Bloodborne transmission
The spread of a disease through contact with blood or other body fluids contaminated with blood
Caudal
Toward the lower part of the body
Cephalic
Toward the head
Chromosome
A genetic structure located within the nucleus of each cell
Communicable disease
Any disease transmitted from one person to another either directly or by indirect contact with contaminated objects
Congenital disorder
An abnormal condition that exists at the time of birth
Cytoplasm
The material located within the cell membrane that is not part of the nucleus
Distal
Situated farthest from the midline or beginning of a body structure
Dorsal
Back of the body or organ
Dysplasia
Abnormal development or growth of cells, tissues, or organs
Endemic
Referring to the ongoing presence of a disease, such as the common cold, within a population, group, or area
Endocrine glands
Glands that secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream
Epidemic
A sudden and widespread outbreak of a disease within a specific population group or area
Epigastric region
The region located above the stomach
Etiology
The study of the causes of diseases
Exocrine glands
Glands that secrete chemical substances into ducts leading either to other organs or out of the body
Functional disorder
Produces symptoms for which no physiological or anatomical cause can be identified
Genetic disorder
A pathological condition caused by an absent or defective gene
Geriatrician
A physician who specializes in the care of older people
Hemophilia
A group of hereditary bleeding disorders in which a blood clotting factor is missing
Histology
The microscopic study of the structure, composition, and function of tissues
Homeostasis
The processes through which the body maintains a constant internal environment
Hyperplasia
The enlargement of an organ or tissue because of an abnormal increase in the number of cells in the tissues
Hypertrophy
A general increase in the bulk of a body part or organ that is due to an increase in the size, but not in the number, of the cells in the tissues
Hypogastric region
The region of the abdomen that is below the stomach
Hypoplasia
The incomplete development of an organ or tissue usually due to a deficiency in the number of cells
iatrogenic illness
Unfavorable response due to prescribed medical treatment
Idiopathic disorder
An illness without known cause
Infectious disease
Illness caused by living pathogenic organisms such as bacteria and viruses
inguinal
Relating to the groin, refers to the entire lower portion of the abdomen including the groin
Medial
The direction toward or nearer the midline
Messentery
The fused double layer of the parietal peritoneum that attached parts of the intestine to the interior abdominal wall
Midsagittal plane
The vertical plane that divides the body, from top to bottom, into equal left and right halves
Nosocomial infection
A disease acquired in a hospital or clinical setting
Pandemic
A disease outbreak occurring over a large geographic area, possibly worldwide
Pelvic cavity
The space formed by the hip bones that contains the organs of the reproductive and excretory systems
Peritoneum
The multilayered membrane that protects and holds the organs in place with the abdominal cavity
Peritonitis
Inflammation of the peritoneum
Phenylketonuria
A genetic disorder in which the essential digestive enzyme phenylalanine hydroxylase is missing
Physiology
The study of the functions of the body structures
Posterior
Situated in the back or on the back part of an organ
Proximal
Situated nearest the midline or beginning of a body structure
Retroperitoneal
Located behind the peritoneum
Stem cells
Unspecialized cells that renew themselves for long periods of time through cell division
Thoracic cavity
The cavity that surrounds and protects the heart and the lungs also known as the chest cavity
Transverse plane
The horizontal plane that divides the body into upper and lower portions
Umbilicus
The pit in the center of the abdominal wall that marks where the umbilical cord was attached before birth
Vector-borne transmission
The spread of a disease due to the bite of a vector capable of transmitting that disease
Ventral
Refers to the front or belly side of the body or organ
Cranial
Pertaining to the skull
Homeostasis
The process through which the body maintains a constant internal environment
Abdominopelvic cavity
Pertaining to the abdominal and pelvic cavities as a single unit
Inguinal
Refers to the entire lower area of the abdomen, including the groin, which is the crease at the junction of the trunk with the upper end of the thigh.
Left and right hypochondriac regions
Part of the thorax/abdomen region below the ribs. Also an individual with an abnormal concern for his or her health.
Epigastric region
Part of the thorax/abdomen region located above the stomach
Right and left lumbar regions
Part of the thorax/abdomen region located near the inward curve of the spine. Part of the ribs between the ribs and pelvis.
Umbilical region
Part of the thorqx/abdomen region that Surrounds the umbilicus, which is commonly known as the belly button or navel. This pit in the center of the abdominal wall marks the point where the umbilical cord was attached before birth.
Left and right iliac regions
Part of the thorax/abdomen region Located near the hip bones
Hypogastric region
Part of the thorax/abdomen region Located below the stomach
Peritoneum
A multilayered membrane that protects and holds the organs in place within the abdominal cavity.
Membrane
A thin layer of tissue that covers a surface, lines a cavity, or divides a space or organ.
Mesentery
A fused double layer of the parietal peritoneum that attaches parts of the intestine to the interior abdominal wall.
Visceral peritoneum
The inner layer of the peritoneum that surrounds the organs of the abdominal cavity.
Visceral
Relating to internal organs.
Peritonitis
Inflammation of the peritoneum.
Cytology
The study of the anatomy
Etiology
Study of the causes of diseases
Endemic
Refers to the ongoing presence of a disease within a population, group or area.
Organic disorder
Produces symptoms caused by detectable physical changes in the body. (IE chicken pox which has a rash is an organic disorder by a virus)
Atresia
The congenital absence of a normal body opening or the failure of a structure to be tubal.
Parietal peritoneum
The outer layer of the peritoneum that lines the interior of the abdominal wall
Bones
Living tissue made up of mostly collagens d calcium which can grow and repair itself. Collagen is a protein providing the framework and calcium is a mineral that adds strength and hardness. The combo of both make bones flexible and strong enough to withstand stress.
Joint
The point at which two or more bones are connected.
Cartilage
Lining that beeps bones from grinding against each other. Softer than bones and found in many other body parts such as rib cage, external ear, tip of nose and intervertebral disks.
Ligaments
Strong, elastic bands of tissue that join bones to other bones.
Bursa
Fluid-filled sac that cushions areas subject to friction, such as the shoulder, elbow, and knee joints.
Skull
Bones of skull dividend into 2 groups… cranium and face. The 8 bones that form the cranium protect the brain. There are 14 bones that form the face. The auditory ossicles are 3 tiny bones located in each middle ear.
Rib cage
Protects the heart and lungs. Consists of 25 ribs, sternum (breastbone), and 12 thoracic vertebrae of the spinal column.
Spinal column
Aka as the vertebrae column, the spinal column supports the head and body and protects the spinal cord. The bony structures of the spinal column are called vertebrae. There are 26 vertebrae - 7 cervical, 12 thoracic, 5 lumbar, 1 sacrum, and 1 coccyx. The intervertebral disks act as shock absorbers that separate and cushion them from each other.
Bones of the upper limb
Bones of the arms, forearms, wrists, hands and fingers.
Shoulder girdle
Aka pectoral girdle, is a set of bones which connects to the arms on each side. These bones are highly mobile to enhance the range of upper limb movements.
Bones of the lower limb
Bones of the hips, legs, thighs, ankles, feet and toes.
Pelvic girdle
A largely immobile bony, weight-bearing structure that provides a strong foundation for the upper body as it rests on top of the mobile lower limbs.
Femur
Largest bone in body - thigh bone. Head of the femur articulates with the acetabulum (hip socket). The femoral neck is the narrow area just below the head of the femur.
Mandible
Aka jawbone
Coccyx
Aka tailbone
Carpals
Bones that form the wrist
Costals
Aka ribs
Muscle
A band of fibrous tissue that has the ability to contract. Contraction is stimulated by nerve impulses and triggers the movement of the muscle. When the impulse is removed the muscle relaxes back to its natural state. This pattern of contraction and relaxation is responsible for all the movements in the body. The 3 types of muscles are skeletal, smooth, and myocardial.
Skeletal muscles
Attached to the bones and help limbs and other body parts move. These muscles are under conscious, or voluntary, control. They are also known as striated muscles because, under a microscope, the dark and light bands in the muscle fibers create a striped appearance. Striated means striped.
Smooth muscles
Make up the walls of the hollow organs (intestines, stomach, urinary bladder, uterus), blood vessels, and internal muscles of the eye. These muscles are under involuntary control, which means they are not consciously directed. Smooth muscles do not have striations.
Myocardial
Aka cardiac muscles, make up the wall of the heart and are responsible for the forceful contractions of the heart. The action of these muscles is involuntary.
Fascia
Densely woven sheath of connective tissue that supports muscles, bones, nerves, arteries and veins, and surrounds virtually every organ of the human body, including the heart, lungs, brain and spinal cord. One continuous structure from head to toe. It’s also mostly collagen so it’s very flexible.
Tendons
Tough cords of tissue that attach skeletal muscles to bones. Tendons and muscles work together and exert a pulling force to move the bone. The largest tendon on the human body is the Achille’s tendon, which attaches the calf muscle to the heel bone.
Acetabulum
The large circular cavity in each side of the pelvis that articulates with the head of the femur to form the hip joint; commonly known as the hip socket
Allogenic
Originating within another (ie allogenic bone marrow transplant uses bone marrow from a compatible donor but must be a perfect match).
Ankylosis spondylitis
A form of rheumatoid arthritis that primarily causes inflammation of the joints between the vertebrae
Arthrodesis
The surgical fusion of two bones to stiffen a joint
Arthrolysis
The surgical loosening of an ankylosed joint
Arthroscopy
The visual examination of the internal structure of a joint
Autologous
Originating within the individual (ie autologous bone marrow transplant is when patient receives his or her own bone marrow cells which have been harvested and treated).
Vascular necrosis
An area of bone tissue death caused by insufficient blood flow
Chondromalacia
The abnormal softening of cartilage
Comminuted fracture
A fractured in which the bone is splintered or crushed
Compression fracture
Occurs when the bone is pressed together on itself
Costochondritis
An inflammation of the cartilage that connects a rib to the sternum
Craniostenosis
A malformation of the skull due to the premature closure of the cranial sutures
Crepitation
The grating sound heard when the ends of a broken bone move together
Duel x-ray absorptiometry
A low exposure radiographic measurement of the spine and hips that measures bone density
Gout
A type of arthritis characterized by deposits of iron acid crystals on the joints
Hallux valgus
An abnormal enlargement of the joint at the base of the great toe; also known as a bunion
Hemarthrosis
Blood within a joint
Hemopoietic
Pertaining to the formation of blood cells
Internal fixation
A fracture treatment in which a plate or pins are placed directly into the bone to hold the broken pieces in place
Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis
An autoimmune disorder that affects children ages 16 or younger, with symptoms that include stiffness, pain, joint swelling, skin rash, fever, slowed growth, and fatigue
Kyphosis
An abnormal increase in the outward curvature of the thoracic spine as viewed from the side; also known as humpback or dowager’s himp
Laminectomy
The surgical removal of a lamina from a vertebra
Lordosis
An abnormal increase in the forward curvature of the lumbar spine; also known as swayback
Lumbago
Pain in the lumbar region of the spine; aka low back pain
Malleolus
The rounded bony projection on the tibia and fibula on the sides of each ankle joint
Manubrium
The bony structure that forms the upper portion of the sternum
Metacarpals
The five bones that form the back of the hand
Metatarsals
The bones that form the part of the foot to which the toes are attached
Myeloma
Type of cancer that occurs in the blood-making cells found in the red bone marrow
Open fracture
A break in which the bone is broken and there is an open wound in the skin; also known as a compound fracture
Orthopedic surgeon
A physician who specializes in diagnosing and treating disorders involving the bones, joints, and muscles; aka an orthopedist
Orthotic
A mechanical appliance such as a leg brace or splint that is specially designed to control, correct, or compensate for impaired limb function.
Osteitis
Inflammation of a bone
Osteoarthritis
The type of arthritis commonly associated with aging; aka wear-and-tear arthritis. Known as a degenerative joint disease because it is characterized by wearing away of the particular cartilage within the joints. Also characterized by hyper trophy of bone and the formation of osteophytes, aka bone spurs.
Osteochondroma
A benign bony projection covered with cartilage
Osteoclasis
The surgical fracture of a bone to correct a deformity
Osteomalacia
Aka adult rickets / Abnormal softening of bones in adults / caused by a deficiency of vitamin D, calcium, and/or phosphate.
Osteomyelitis
Inflammation of the bone marrow and adjacent bone
Osteopenia
Thinner-than-average bone density
Osteoporosis
A marked loss of bone density and an increase in bone porosity frequently asssocisted with aging. Osteoporosis is primarily responsible for 3 types of fractures: compression fracture aka vertebrae crush fracture, Colles’ fracture, osteoporotic hip fracture.
Osteoporotic hip fracture
A broken bone usually caused by weakening of the bones due to osteoporosis and can occur spontaneously or as a result of a fall
Osteorrhaphy
Surgical suturing or working together of bones
Paget’s disease
A disease of unknown origin that is characterized by extensive breakdown of bone tissue followed by abnormal bone formation
Pathologic fracture
When a bone breaks under normal strain because the bone has been weakened by osteoporosis or by a disease process such as cancer
Percutaneous vertebroplasty
A minimally invasive procedure performed to treat osteoporosis-related compression fractures of the spine
Periostitis
Inflammation of the periosteum
Podiatrist
A specialist in diagnosing and treating disorders of the foot
Polymyalgia rheumatica
An inflammatory disorder of the muscles and joints characterized by pain and stiffness in the neck, shoulders, upper arms, and hips and thighs
Prosthesis
A substitute for a diseased or missing body part, such as a leg that has been amputated (aka implant).
Rheumatoid arthritis
A chronic autoimmune disorder in which the joints and some organs of other body systems are attacked. As RA progressively attacks the synovial membranes they become inflamed and thickened so that the joints are increasingly swollen painful and immobile.
Rickets
Deficiency disease in children characterized by defective bone growth caused by a lack of vitamin D
Scoliosis
Abnormal lateral curvature of the spine
Spina bifida
Congenital defect that occurs during early pregnancy in which the spinal canal fails to close completely around the spinal cord to protect it
Spiral fracture
Fracture in which the bone has been twisted apart
Spondylolisthesis
Forward slipping movement of the body of one of the lower lumbar vertebrae on the vertebra or sacrum below it
Spondylosis
Degenerative disorder that can cause the loss of normal spinal structure and function; aka spinal osteoarthritis
Subluxation
Partial displacement of a bone from its joint
Synovectomy
Surgical removal of a synovial membrane from a joint
Vertebrae
Bony structural units of the spinal column
Ossification
Process by which a newborn skeleton of membranes and cartilage turn to bone (after 3 months)
The tissues of bone
See chart in chapter 3 page 59.
Periosteum, compact bone, cortical bone, spongy bone aka cancellous bone, long bone, medullary cavity, endosteum
Meniscus
Curved, fibrous cartilage found in some joints such as the knee and tmj joint of the jaw
An atomic landmark of bones
Diaphysis, epiphyses, foramen, foramen magnum, process, mastoid process
Fontanelles
Soft spots which help facilitate the passage of infant through the birth canal and then allows the skull to grow during the first year.
Components of synovial joints
Ch 3 page 61.
Synovial capsule, synovial membrane, synovial fluid, ligaments, bursa
Appendage
Anything that is attached to a major part of the body
Appendicular
Referring to an appendage
Extremity
The terminal end of a body part such as an arm or leg
Bones of the cranium
Ch 3 pg 62
8 bones enclose and protect the brain: frontal bone, 2 parietal bones, occipital bone, 2 temporal bones, sphenoid bone, and ethmoid bone
External auditory meatus
The opening of the external auditory canal of the outer ear. This canal is located within the temporal bone on each side of the skull. A meatus is the external opening of a canal
Auditory ossicles
3 tiny bones located in each middle ear. These bones are known as the malleus, incus, and stapes
Bones of the face
Ch 3 pg 62
14 bones
Thoracic cavity
Bony structure that protects the heart and lungs. Consists of the ribs, sternum, and upper portion of the spinal column. Aka the rib cage.
Sternum
Ch 3 pg 63
Aka Breastbone
The shoulders
Form the pectoral girdle which supports the arms and hands. Aka shoulder girdle.
Clavicle aka collar bone, scapula, acromion
The arms
Humerus, radius, ulna, and olecranon process
The wrists, hands and fingers
8 carpals, metacarpals, phalanges, each 4 finger has 3 bones, the thumb has 2
Pelvis
Ala bony pelvis, protects internal organs and supports the lower extremities. In addition to the sacrum and coccyx, it includes the pelvic girdle (which consists of the ilium, ischium, and pubis)
Symphysis
A place where two bones are closely joined (ie pubic symphysis)
Patella
Aka kneecap. Bony anterior portion of the knee. The term popliteal describes the posterior space behind the knee where the ligaments, vessels, and muscles related to this joint are located. The cruciate ligaments make movements of the knee possible. These are known as the anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments because they are shaped like a cross.
Tibia
Aka shinbone. The larger anterior weight-bearing bone of the lower leg.
Fibula
The smaller of the two bones of the lower leg.
Ankle
Joints that connect the lower leg and foot to make the necessary movements possible. Each ankle is made up of 7 short tarsal bones. Similar to bones in wrists except much larger in size. The talus is the ankle bones that articulates with the tibia and fibula. Malleolus is a rounded bony projection on the tibia and fibula on the sides of each ankle joint. The calcaneus, aka heel bone, is the largest of the tarsal bones.
Ankylosis
The loss of absence of mobility in a joint due to disease, injury or surgical procedure.
Ankylosis
The loss of absence of mobility in a joint due to disease, injury or surgical procedure.
Adhesive capsulitis
Aka frozen shoulder. Cause by adhesions forming in the synovial capsule surrounding the shoulder, making the joints become thicker and tighter.
Arthrosclerosis
Stiffness of the joints especially in the elderly
Capsul
Little box
Baker’s cyst
Aka popliteal cyst / a fluid filled sac behind the knee. This usually results from a condition such as rheumatoid arthritis triggering the production of excess synovial fluid. The condition is named for British surgeon William Baker.
Bursitis
An inflammation of a bursa
Polymyalgia rheumatica
Inflammatory disorder of the muscles and joints characterized by pain and stiffness in the neck shoulders upper arms, and hips and thighs.
Sprain
Occurs when a ligament that connects bones to a joint is wrenched or torn
Synovitis
Inflammation of the synovial membrane that results in swelling and pain of the affected joint. This condition is caused by arthritis, trauma, infection or irritation produced by damaged cartilage.
Dislocation
Aka luxation / total displacement of a bone from its joint. Subluxation is partial displacement of a bone from its joint.
Arthritis
Inflammatory condition of one or more joints. There are over 100 types of arthritis.
Degenerative joint disease
Breaking down of a body part
Osteophytes
Bone spurs
Gout
Aka gouty arthritis which is a type of arthritis characterized by deposits of iris acid crystals in the joints, usually beginning in the big toe.
Rheumatoid arthritis
Aka RA / a chronic autoimmune disorder in which the joints and some organs of other body systems are attacked.
Arthritis
An inflammatory condition of one or more joints. There are more than 100 types of arthritis.
Curvatures of the spine
Kyphosis, lordosis, scoliosis
Vascular necrosis
Aka osteonecrosis, an area of bone tissue death caused by insufficient blood flow. It most commonly occurs in the hip joint
Vascul/o
Blood vessels
Talipes
Aka club foot / describes any congenital deformity of the foot involving the talus (ankle bone).
Ewing’s sarcoma
Tumor that occurs in the bones of the upper arm, legs, pelvis, or rib. Peak incidence for the development of this condition is 10-20 years.
Primary vs secondary bone cancer
Primary is a relatively rare malignant tumor that originates in a bone. Secondary describes tumors that have metastasized (spread) to bones from other organs such as the breast and lungs.
Exostosis
Abnormal growth of bone on a bone.
Colles’ fracture
Named for Irish surgeon Abraham Colles, aka fractured wrist.
Types of fractures
Closed aka simple or complete, open aka compound, green stick aka incomplete, comminuted, oblique, pathologic, spiral, stress and transverse
Closed fracture
Aka simple or complete fracture / one in which the bone is broken but there is no open wound on the skin
Closed fracture
Aka simple or complete fracture / one in which the bone is broken but there is no open wound on the skin
Open fracture
Aka compound fracture / one in which the bone is broken and there is an open wound on the skin.
Comminuted fracture
One in which a bone is splintered or crushed.
Greenstick fracture
Aka incomplete fracture / one in which the bone is bent and only partially broken / occurs primarily in children.
Oblique fracture
Occurs at an angle across the bone.
Pathologic fracture
Occurs when a weakened bone breaks under normal strain. This is due to bones being weakened by osteoporosis or a disease process such as cancer.
Spiral fracture
A fracture in which the bone has been twisted apart. This type of fracture occurs as the result of a severe twisting motion such as a knee injury.
Stress fracture
An overuse injury / a small crack in the bone that often develops from chronic, excessive impact.
Transverse fracture
Occurs straight across the bone
Fat embolus
When a long bone is fractured and fat cells from yellow bone marrow are released into the blood. An embolus is any foreign matter circulating in the blood that can become lodged and block the blood vessel.
Crepitation
Aka Crepitus / the grating sound heard when the ends of a broken bone move together. It is often used to describe the popping or clicking sound heard in the movements of some joints.
Callus
A callus forms as a bulging deposit around the area of a break. Thickening of the skin caused by repeated rubbing.
Radiograph
Aka x-ray / the use of x-radiation to visualize bone fractures and other abnormalities.
Arthroscopy
The visual examination of the internal structure of a joint.
Bone marrow biopsy
A diagnostic test that may be necessary after abnormal types or numbers of red or white blood cells are found in a complete blood count test.
Bone marrow aspiration
The use of a syringe to withdraw tissue from the red bone marrow.
Magnetic response imaging (mri)
Used to image soft tissue structures such as the interior of complex joints. Not very effective for imaging hard tissue such as bone.
Bone density testing (BDT)
Determined losses or changes in bone density to diagnose conditions such as osteoporosis, osteomalacia, osteopenia, and Paget’s disease.
Ultrasonic bone density testing
A screening procedure using sound waves to test for osteoporosis or other conditions that cause a loss of bone mass. Measurements are taken of the calcaneus (heel) bone.
Dual x-ray absorptiometry (DXA)
A low-exposure radiographic measurement of the spine and hips to measure bone density. More accurate than ultrasonic bone density testing.
Dual x-ray absorptiometry (DXA)
A low-exposure radiographic measurement of the spine and hips to measure bone density. More accurate than ultrasonic bone density testing.
Bone marrow transplant (BMT)
Used to treat certain types of cancers such as leukemia and lymphomas, which affect bone marrow. Patient’s bone marrow and cancer cells are destroyed with high-intensity radiation and chemotherapy then healthy bone marrow stem cells are transfused into the recipient’s blood. These cells migrate to the spongy bone where they multiply to form new cancer-free bone marrow. Stem cells produced by the bone marrow eventually develop into blood cells.
Orthotic
A mechanical appliance such as a shoe insert which will help control or correct for impaired limb function.
Prosthesis
A substitute for a missing body part.
Arthroscopic surgery
A minimally invasive procedure for the treatment of the interior of a joint.
Chondroplasty
The surgical repair of damaged cartilage.
Arthroplasty
Surgical repair of a damaged joint (has come to mean the surgical placement of an artificial joint).
Percutaneous diskectomy
Performed to treat a herniated invertebral disk. A thin tube is inserted through the skin of the back to suction out the ruptured disk or to vaporize it with a laser.
Craniectomy
Surgical removal of a portion of the skull l. Performed to treat craniostenosis or to relieve increased intracranial pressure due to swelling of the brain.
Craniotomy
Surgical incision or opening into the skull. Performed to gain access to the brain to remove a tumor, to relieve intracranial pressure, or to obtain access for other surgical procedures.
Cranioplasty
Surgical repair of the skull.
Osteoectomy
Surgical removal of bone.
Osteorrhaphy
Surgical suturing or working together of bones.
Osteotomy
Surgical cutting of a bone.
Periosteotomy
An incision through the periosteum to the bone.
Closed reduction
Aka manipulation. Attempted realignment of the bone involved in a fracture or joint dislocation.
Traction
A pulling force exerted on a limb in a distal direction in an effort to return the bone or joint to normal alignment.
External fixation
A fracture treatment procedure in which pins are placed through the soft tissues and bone so that an external appliance can be used to hold the pieces of bone firmly in place during healing. When healing is complete the appliance is removed.
Internal fixation
Aka open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) is a fracture treatment in which a plate or pins are placed directly into the bone to hold the broken pieces in place. Not usually removed after the fracture has healed.
Diaphysis
The shaft of a long bone
Xiphoid process
Lower portion of sternum
Foramen
Opening in a bone through which blood vessels, nerves, and ligaments pass. Plural is foramina.
Process
A projection or outgrowth of tissue from a larger body part, typically a bone. These bony processes serve as attachment points for muscles, tendons, or ligaments and can also help form joints.
For example:
• The mastoid process is a bony prominence behind the ear that serves as an attachment for neck muscles.
• The xiphoid process, at the base of the sternum, connects with several muscles.
Zygomatic
Cheekbone
Olecranon process
Point of the elbow
Rheumatoid arthritis
Autoimmune arthritis
Myeloma
Type of cancer that occurs in blood-making cells found in the red bone marrow.
Ewing’s sarcoma
A rare and aggressive type of cancer that primarily affects bones and soft tissues, particularly in children and adolescents. It is part of a group of tumors known as Ewing’s sarcoma family of tumors (ESFT), which also includes peripheral primitive neuroectodermal tumors (PNET).
This cancer most commonly develops in the long bones, such as the femur, tibia, and humerus, but can also occur in other parts of the body, including the pelvis, ribs, and soft tissues. Ewing’s sarcoma typically causes symptoms like pain, swelling, and sometimes fever.
The exact cause of Ewing’s sarcoma is not fully understood, but it is thought to result from a genetic mutation, often involving a translocation between chromosomes 11 and 22. Treatment usually involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
Muscles
Make body movement possible, hold body erect, move body fluids, and produce body heat.
Fascia
Cover, support, and separate muscles.
Abduction
Movement of a limb away from the midline of the body.
Adduction
Movement of a limb toward the midline of the body.
Adhesion
A band of fibrous tissue that holds structure together abnormally.
Ataxia
The lack of muscle coordination during voluntary movement.
Atonic
Lacking normal muscle tone or strength.
Atrophy
Weakness or wearing away of body tissues and structures.
Bradykinesia
Extreme slowness in movement.
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Inflammation and swelling of the tendons that pass through the carpal tunnel, which then create pressure on the median nerve.
Chronic fatigue syndrome
A debilitating and complex disorder characterized by profound fatigue that is not improved by bed rest and may be made worse by physical or mental activity.
Curcumduction
The circular movement at the far end of a limb.
Contracture
The permanent tightening of fascia, muscles, tendons, ligaments, or skin that occurs when normally elastic connective tissues are replaced with non-elastic fibrous tissues.
Dorsiflexion
Movement that bends the foot upward at the ankle.
Dyskinesia
Distortion or impairment of voluntary movement resulting in fragmented or jerky motions.
Dystonia
A condition of abnormal muscle tone that causes the impairment of voluntary muscle movement.
Electromyography
A diagnostic test that measures the electrical activity within muscle fibers in response to nerve stimulation.
Electromyography
A diagnostic test that measures the electrical activity within muscle fibers in response to nerve stimulation.
Epicondylitis
Inflammation of the tissues surrounding the elbows. Lateral is aka tennis elbow and medial aka golfers elbow.
Ergonomics
The study of human factors that affect the design and operation of tools and the work environment.
Exercise physiologist
A specialist who works under a physician’s supervision to develop, implement, and coordinate exercise programs, and administer medical tests to promote physical fitness.
Fasciitis
Inflammation of a fascia.
Fibromyalgia
A debilitating chronic condition characterized by fatigue; diffuse or specific muscle, joint, or bone pain; and a wide range of other symptoms.
Ganglion cyst
A harmless fluid-filled swelling that occurs most commonly on the outer surface of the wrist.
Heel spur
A calcium deposit in the plantar fascia near its attachment to the heel bone.
Hemiparesis
Slight paralysis or weakness affecting one side of the body.
Hemiplegia
Total paralysis affecting only one side of the body.
Hernia
The profusion of a part of a structure through the tissues normally containing it.
Hyperkinesia
Abnormally increased motor function or activity, aka hyperactivity.
Hypotonia
A condition of diminished tone of the skeletal muscles
Impingement syndrome
Inflammed and swollen tendons are caught in the narrow space between the bones within the shoulder joint.
Insertion
The point where the muscle ends by attaching to a bone or tendon.
Intermittent claudication
Pain in leg muscles that occurs during exercise and is relieved by rest.
Muscular dystrophy
A group of more than 30 genetic diseases that characterized by progressive weakness and degeneration of the skeletal muscles that control movement, without affecting the nervous system.
Myasthenia gravis
A chronic autoimmune disease that affects the neuromuscular junction and produces serious weakness is voluntary muscles.
Myocele
The herniation (protrusion) of muscle substance through a tear in the fascia surrounding it.
Myoclonus
The quick involuntary jerking of a muscle or group of muscles.
Myofascial release
A specialized soft-tissue manipulation technique used to ease the pain of conditions such as fibromyalgia, myofacial pain syndrome, movement restrictions, temporomandibular joint disorders, and carpal tunnel syndrome.
Myolysis
The degeneration of muscle tissue.
Myoparesis
Weakness or slight muscular paralysis.
Neuromuscular
Pertaining to the relationship between nerve and muscle.
Oblique
Slanted or at an angle
Origin
The point where the muscle begins, located nearest the midline of the body or on a less movable part of the skeleton.
Paralysis
The loss of sensation and voluntary muscle movements in a muscle through disease or injury to its nerve supply.
Paraplegia
Paralysis of both legs and the lower part of the body.
Physiatrist
A physician who specializes in physical medicine and rehabilitation with the focus on restoring function.
Plantar fasciitis
Inflammation of the plantar fascia on the sole of the foot, causing foot or heel pain when walking or running.
Polymyositis
A muscle disease characterized by the simultaneous inflammation and weakening of voluntary muscles in many parts of the body.
Pronation
The act of rotating the armor the leg so the palm of the hand or sole of the foot is turned downward or backward.
Quadriplegia
Paralysis of all four extremities.
Sarcopenia
The loss of muscle mass, strength, and function that come with aging.
Shin splint
A painful condition caused by the tibialis anterior muscle tearing away from the tibia (shin bone).
Singultus
Myoclonus of the diaphragm that causes the characteristic hiccup sound with each spasm; aka hiccups
Sphincter
A ring-like muscle that tightly constricts the opening of a passageway.
Sprain
An injury to a joint, such as ankle, knee or wrist which usually occurs when a ligament is wrenched or torn.
Tenodesis
The suturing of the end of a tendon to a bone.
Tenolysis
The release of a tendon from adhesions.
Tenorrhaphy
The surgical suturing together of the divided ends of a tendon.
Tenosynovitis
An inflammation of the sheath surrounding a tendon.
Tenotomy
A surgical incision into a tendon.
Torticollis
A stiff neck due to spasmodic contraction of the neck muscles that pull the head toward the affected side; also known as wryneck.
Transverse
In a crosswise direction.
Muscle fibers
The long, slender cells that make up muscles. Each muscle consists of a group of fibers that are bound together by connective tissue.
Fascia
Band of connective tissue that envelops, separates, or binds together muscles or groups of muscles. Plural is fasciae or fascias.
Tendon
Narrow band of nonelastic, dense, fibrous connective tissue that attached a muscle to a bone.
Patellar tendon
Attached muscles to the bottom of the patella (kneecap).
Achilles tendon
Attaches the gastrocnemius muscle (the major muscle of the calf of the leg) to the heel bone.
Aponeurosis
Sheet-like fibrous connective tissue resembling a flattened tendon that connects muscles together or to a bone. Plies is aponeuroses.
Muscle innervation
Stimulation of a muscle by an impulse transmitted by a motor nerve. Motor nerves control the body’s voluntary muscular contractions.
Neuromuscular
Pertaining to the relationship between a nerve and muscle.
Antagonistic
Refers to working in opposition to each other. One relaxes and the other contracts.
Contraction
Tightening of a muscle
Relaxation
Muscle returns to original form.
Extension
Increases the angle of the elbow and moves hand away from the body.
Flexion
Decreases the angle of the elbow and moves the hand toward the body.
Rotation
A circular movement around an axis such as the shoulder joint.
Circumduction
The circular movement at the far end of a limb.
Dorsiflexion
Bends the foot upward at the ankle.
Plantar flexion
Bends the foot downward at the ankle.
Axis
An imaginary line that runs lengthwise through the center of the body / rotation turns a bone on its own axis.
Rotator cuff
The group of muscles and their tendons that hold the head of the humerus securely in place as it rotates within the shoulder joint.
Superficial
Near the surface
Sternocleidomastoid muscle
Helps bend the neck and rotate the head.
Mastoid muscle
Inserts at one point of insertion into the mastoid process (just behind the ear).
Pectoralis major
Thick fan-shaped muscle situated on the anterior chest wall.
Pectoral
Relating to the chest
Lateralis
Toward the side
Vastus lateralis
Large muscle toward the outer side of the leg.
Vastus
Latin word for huge
Medialis
Toward the midline.
Oblique
Slanted or at an angle
Rectus
In straight alignment with the vertical axis of the body.
Sphincter
A ring-like muscle that tightly constricts the opening of a passageway.
Biceps brachii
Aka biceps, is formed of two divisions.
Triceps brachii
Aka triceps / formed from 3 divisions.
Gluteus Maximus
The largest muscle of the buttock.
Deltoid muscle
Located on the shoulder and shaped like an inverted triangle.
Hamstring group
The muscles by which a butcher hangs a pig / consists of three separate muscles: the biceps femoris, semitendinosus, and semi membranous muscles.
Frontals / aka occipitofrontalis
Muscle in the forehead that raises and lowers the eyebrows.
Termporalis muscle
Moved the lower jaw up back to close the mouth.
Masseter muscle
One of the strongest in the body, moved the lower jaw up to close the mouth when chewing.
Pectoralis major
In male it makes up the bulk of the chest muscles / in female it lies under the breast.
External and internal oblique muscles
Found in the abdomen / external muscles rotate and flex the vertebral column, they also flex the torso and compress the abdomen / the internal muscles flex the spine, support the abdominal contents, help breathe and rotate the spine.
Rectus abdominis
Helps flex the trunk, assists in breathing, and supports the spine.
Transverse abdominis
Located on the side of the abdomen / this core muscle is engaged when a person laughs or coughs.
Deltoid
Forms muscular cap of the shoulder.
Trapezius muscle
Moved the head and shoulder blade.
Rectus femoris
Extends the leg at the knee.
Quadriceps femoris
Made up of 4 muscles, including the Vastus lateralis and Vastus medialis, which flex and extend the leg at the knee.
Gastrocnemius
The calf muscle that flexes the knee and bends the foot downward.
Exercise physiologist
A specialist who works under the supervision of a physician to develop, implement and coordinate exercise programs and administer medical tests to promote physical fitness.
Neurologist
A physician who specializes in treating the causes of paralysis and similar muscular disorders in which there is a loss of function.
Occupational therapist
Helps enable patients to participate in the activities of daily life, including self-care, eduction, work or social interaction.
Physiatrist
Physician who specializes in physical medicine and rehab with the focus on restoring function.
Rehabilitation
Restoration, following disease, illness, or injury, of the ability to function in a normal or near-normal manner.
Physical therapist
Provides treatment to prevent disability or restore function through the use of exercise, heat, massage, or other techniques.
Sports medicine physician
Specializes in treating sports-related injuries of the bones, joints, and muscles.
Fasciitis
Inflammation of a fascia
Fibromyalgia
Debilitating chronic condition characterized by fatigue, diffuse or specific muscle, joint, or bone pain, and a wide range of other symptoms.
Tenosynovitis
An inflammation of the sheath surrounding a tendon
Tendinitis
Inflammation of the tendons caused by excessive or unusual use of the joint. Aka tendonitis or tenonitis.
Chronic fatigue syndrome (cfs)
Disorder of unknown cause / debilitating and complex characterized by profound fatigue that is not improved by bed rest and made worse by physical and mental activity. Symptoms are similar to fibromyalgia / aka myalgic encephalomyelitis
Adhesion
A band of fibrous tissue that holds structured together abnormally. Adhesions can form in muscles or in internal organs, as the result of an injury or surgery.
Atrophy
Weakness or wearing away of body tissues and structures.
Myalgia
Tenderness or pain in muscles.
Myocele
Herniation (protrusion) of muscle substance through a tear in the fascia surrounding it.
Myolysis
The degeneration of muscle tissue.
Myorrhexis
The rupture or tearing of a muscle.
Polymyositis
A muscle disease characterized by the simultaneous inflammation and weakening of voluntary muscles in many parts of the body. The affected muscles are typically closest to the trunk of the body.
Rhabdomyolysis
Death of muscle fibers, which releases their contents into the bloodstream, where they can lead to complications including renal failure.
Gravis
Grave or serious
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD)
Most common form in children / mostly young boys and progresses rapidly
Becker muscular dystrophy (BMD)
Very similar to duchenne but less severe
Compartment syndrome
Compression of nerves and blood vessels due to swelling within the “compartment” (an enclosed space created by the fascia that separates groups of muscles. Can be caused by trauma, tight bandage or casts, or repetitive activities such as running.
Overuse injuries
Overuse tendonitis aka overuse tendinitis, stress fracture
Myofascial pain syndrome
Chronic pain disorder that affects muscles and fascia throughout the body. Caused by muscle being contracted repetitively, and is characterized by trigger points producing local muscle pain.
Referred pain
Pain that originates in one area of the body but is felt in another.
Impingement syndrome
Inflamed and swollen tendons are caught in the narrow space between the bones within the shoulder joint. Common symptom is discomfort when raising arm above head.
Rotator cuff tendinitis
Inflammation of the tendons is the rotator cuff. Aka tennis shoulder or pitchers shoulder.
Ruptured rotator cuff
Offers when rotator cuff tendinitis is left untreated or if the overuse continues.
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Occurs when the tendons that pass the of the carpal tunnel are chronically overused and become inflamed and swollen. This is in the wrist.
Carpal
Pertaining to the wrist
Ganglion cyst
Harmless fluid filled swelling that occurs most commonly on the outer surface of the wrist.
Strain
Injury to the body of the muscle or to the attachment of a tendon. Usually associated with overuse that involve a stretched or torn muscle or tendon.
Hamstring injury
Can be a strain or tear on any of the three hamstring muscles that straighten the hip and bend the knee. Characterized by a suddden and severe pain in the back of the thigh.
Iliotibial band syndrome
Overuse injury / IT band runs from the hipbone diagonally across the leg to the tibia. ITBS is caused by this band rubbing against bone often in the area of the knee.
Spinal cord injury (SCI)
The type of paralysis caused by this type of injury is determined by the level of the vertebra closest to the injury. The higher in the spinal cord the injury occurs the greater the area of the body that may be affected / injury occurs when a vertebra is broken and a piece of the broken bone is pressing into the spinal cord / when spinal cord is injured the ability of the brain to communicate with the body below the level of injury may be reduced or lost altogether.
Deep tendon reflexes (DTRs)
Tested with a reflex hammer that is used to strike a tendon / a reflex is an involuntary response to a stimulus /
Range of motion testing (ROM)
Diagnostic procedure to evaluate joint mobility and muscle strength . Used to increase flexibility, strength, and mobility.
Muscle biopsy
Involves removal of a plug of tissue for examination. A biopsy needle is commonly used to obtain this specimen.
