CQRG 2024 Medical Terminology Bootcamp
SESSION 6 / INTRODUCTION TO THE SKELETAL SYSTEM
Welcome!
If you are new to our medical terminology program we invite you to browse our previous lessons and program activities. Simply click on the PROGRAMS tab above to view individual lessons and materials. Additional activities and reviews are posted on a weekly basis in the NOTES section. Each lesson in the program is a standalone experience, so there is never a worry if you need to take a break. Subscribe to receive the lessons emailed to you, or follow along in the Notes section.
The Skeletal System
The skeletal system plays a key role in many life-sustaining functions.
The skeletal system is essential for supporting various life-sustaining activities. Not only does it serve as the body's framework, consisting of bone, cartilage, and ligaments, but each bone also performs a specific function. In addition to supporting soft tissue, our bones allow us to move, protect our organs, allow us to breathe, help regulate electrolyte levels, and are sites of hematopoietic function.
Key term: hematopoietic
formation of blood cells or blood cellular components
Human adults have between 206 and 213 bones. Interestingly, babies normally have around 270 bones. Depending on intended use, bones can vary in size, form, and strength. Internal and external stimuli may cause changes in the bones and their structure. Increased mechanical stress in bones spurs activation of osteogenesis (the process of bone formation).
Key term: osteogenesis
bone formation
The skeletal system functions include:
blood cell production
facilitate movement
internal organ protection
storage of fat and minerals
supportive framework
“Skeleton,” derives from the greek, skeletos. The term referred to things that were dried up, or a mummy.
Anatomy
The skeleton's main function is to provide a rigid internal structure to support the weight of the body against external forces. It also provides a structure for movement.
Our skeleton has protective and storage functions.
It protects the internal organs, and also serves as the main storage site for essential minerals such as calcium and phosphate. Inside bones, the bone marrow stores fat and houses blood-cell producing tissues.
The skeleton is divided into two major sections:
the axial skeleton, and the
appendicular skeleton.
Key term: axial skeleton
the part of the skeleton that consists of the bones of the head and trunk
Key term: appendicular skeleton
the bones of the shoulder girdle, upper limbs, and pelvic girdle with the lower limbs
Physiology
The skeletal system's bones contain an inner spongy tissue known as bone marrow. There are two kinds of bone marrow: red and yellow.
Key term: bone marrow
tissue found within the spongy interior of bone
Red bone marrow is responsible for producing red blood cells through hematopoiesis. Yellow bone marrow contains adipose tissues that can serve as an energy source.
Additionally, bones store essential minerals. Your bones are the primary storage site of calcium in your body.
Bones in the body are typically connected to at least one other bone. The points where bones meet each other or where bones meet cartilage are known as articulations.
Key term: articulation
1. joint
2. connection between bones, ossicles, and other hard structures in the body
Joints can be categorized based on their degree of mobility. In movable joints, the surfaces of the neighboring bones can glide against each other effortlessly. On the other hand, some joints may be linked by connective tissue or cartilage.
There are (3) types of joints:
Synarthrosis:
joints allow no movement.
For example: joints of the skull
Amphiarthrosis:
joint allow some movement.
For example: joints of the pubic symphysis
Diarthrosis:
joint allows for free movement.
For example: joints of the knee
A bone condition called osteoporosis arises when bone mass and mineral density decline, or when alterations occur to the composition and integrity of bone. This may result in a weakening of the bones, raising the possibility of fractures. Since osteoporosis rarely causes symptoms and may go undiagnosed until a bone breaks, it is referred to as a "silent" illness. For older men and women who have gone through menopause, osteoporosis is the main cause of fractures. Although fractures can occur in any bone, they most frequently occur in the wrist, hip, and vertebrae of the spine.
Healthcare professionals should consider bone health during patient interactions. Weight-bearing exercises offer significant benefits. However, any consistent physical activity is helpful, so recommending age- and condition-appropriate activities can assist in maintaining and improving bone health. Remember that the skeletal system is vital to numerous processes that function to safeguard and maintain well-being.
Recommended Reading (Optional)
Textbook
Medical Terminology for Healthcare Professions, Katherine Greene and Andrea Nelson
Read Chapter 6
Helpful Video:
The Skeletal System Crossword Puzzle Is Here!
https://www.flipbookpdf.net/web/site/a016598d276864927e3eb15554e431d60774a214202404.pdf.html#page/1
Resources:
Medical Terminology for Healthcare Professions, Katherine Greene and Andrea Nelson
NIH
siebertscience www.justinmsiebert.com