The Skeletal System Difficult Words Made Easy

16 Skeletal System

• Identify the anatomy of the skeletal system
• Describe the main functions of the skeletal system
• Spell the medical terms of the skeletal system and use correct abbreviations
• Explore common diseases, disorders, and procedures related to the skeletal system
• Identify the medical specialties associated with the skeletal system

Skeletal System Word Parts

Click on prefixes, combining forms, and suffixes to reveal a list of word parts to memorize for the Musculoskeletal System.

Introduction to the Skeletal System

The skeletal system forms the framework of the body. It is the body system composed of bones, cartilage and ligaments.  Each bone serves a particular function and varies in size, shape and strength. Bones are weight-bearing structures in your body and can therefore change in thickness as you gain or lose weight. The skeletal system performs the following critical functions for the human body:

• supports the body
• facilitates movement
• protects internal organs
• produces blood cells
• stores and releases minerals and fat

Watch this video:

Media 16.1. The Skeletal System: Crash Course A&P #19 [Online video]. Copyright 2015 by CrashCourse.

Skeletal System Medical Terms

Anatomy (Structures) of the Skeletal System

The skeletal system includes all of the bones, cartilages, and ligaments of the body that support and give shape to the body and body structures. The skeleton consists of the bones of the body. For adults, there are 206 bones in the skeleton. Younger individuals have higher numbers of bones because some bones fuse together during childhood and adolescence to form an adult bone. The primary functions of the skeleton are to provide a rigid, internal structure that can support the weight of the body against the force of gravity, and to provide a structure upon which muscles can act to produce movements of the body.

In addition to providing for support and movements of the body, the skeleton has protective and storage functions. It protects the internal organs, including the brain, spinal cord, heart, lungs, and pelvic organs. The bones of the skeleton serve as the primary storage site for important minerals such as calcium and phosphate. The bone marrow found within bones stores fat and houses the blood-cell producing tissue of the body.

The skeleton is subdivided into two major divisions: the axial and appendicular.

The Axial Skeleton

The axial skeleton forms the vertical, central axis of the body and includes all bones of the head, neck, chest, and back (see Figure 16.1). It serves to protect the brain, spinal cord, heart, and lungs. It also serves as the attachment site for muscles that move the head, neck, and back, and for muscles that act across the shoulder and hip joints to move their corresponding limbs.

The axial skeleton of the adult consists of 80 bones including the skull, the vertebral column, and the thoracic cage. The skull is formed by 22 bones. Also associated with the head are an additional seven bones, including the hyoid bone and the ear ossicles (three small bones found in each middle ear). The vertebral column consists of 24 bones, each called a vertebra, plus the sacrum and coccyx. The thoracic cage includes the 12 pairs of ribs, and the sternum, the flattened bone of the anterior chest.

Figure 16.1 Axial and Appendicular Skeleton. The axial skeleton supports the head, neck, back, and chest and thus forms the vertical axis of the body. It consists of the skull, vertebral column (including the sacrum and coccyx), and the thoracic cage, formed by the ribs and sternum. The appendicular skeleton is made up of all bones of the upper and lower limbs. From Betts, et al., 2013. Licensed under CC BY 4.0. [Image description.]

The cranium or skull supports the face and protects the brain. It is subdivided into the bones of the skull and the bones of the face.

Bones of the Skull

• Frontal – forms the forehead
• Parietal – the upper lateral sides of the cranium
• Occipital – the posterior skull and base of the cranial cavity
• Temporal – the lower lateral sides of the cranium
• Sphenoid -the 'keystone' bone that forms part of the base of skull and eye sockets
• Ethmoid – forms part of the nose and orbit and base of cranium
• Auditory ossicles – the small bones of the middle ear
• External auditory meatus – the external opening of ear and temporal bone

Bones of the Face

• Zygomatic – the cheekbone
• Maxillary – the upper jaw and hard palate
• Palatine –  the lateral walls of the nose
• Lacrimal – the walls of the orbit
• Inferior conchae – the lower lateral wall of the nasal cavity
• Vomer – the separates the left and right nasal cavity
• Mandible – the lower jaw bone (The only movable bone of the skull)
• Hyoid – the bone located between the mandible and larynx, not connected to other bones

Bones of the Vertebral Column

The vertebral column is also known as the spinal column or spine (see Figure 16.2). It consists of a sequence of vertebrae (singular = vertebra), each of which is separated and united by an intervertebral disc. Together, the vertebrae and intervertebral discs form the vertebral column. It is a flexible column that supports the head, neck, and body and allows for their movements. It also protects the spinal cord, which passes down the back through openings in the vertebrae.

Figure 16.2 Vertebral Column. The adult vertebral column consists of 24 vertebrae, plus the sacrum and coccyx. The vertebrae are divided into three regions: cervical C1–C7 vertebrae, thoracic T1–T12 vertebrae, and lumbar L1–L5 vertebrae. The vertebral column is curved, with two primary curvatures (thoracic and sacrococcygeal curves) and two secondary curvatures (cervical and lumbar curves). From Betts, et al., 2013. Licensed under CC BY 4.0. [Image description.]

Types of Vertebrae

• Cervical – C1 to C7 – the first 7 vertebrae in the neck region
• Thoracic – T1 to T12 – the next 12 vertebrae that forms the outward curvature of the spine
• Lumbar – L1 to L5 – the next 5 vertebrae that forms the inner curvature of spine
• Sacrum – the triangular-shaped bone at the base of the spine
• Coccyx – the tailbone

Bones of the Thoracic Cavity

The thoracic cage (rib cage) forms the thorax (chest) portion of the body. It consists of the 12 pairs of ribs with their costal cartilages and the sternum (see Figure 16.3). The ribs are anchored posteriorly to the 12 thoracic vertebrae (T1–T12). The thoracic cage protects the heart and lungs.

Figure 16.3 Thoracic Cage. The thoracic cage is formed by the (a) sternum and (b) 12 pairs of ribs with their costal cartilages. The ribs are anchored posteriorly to the 12 thoracic vertebrae. The sternum consists of the manubrium, body, and xiphoid process. The ribs are classified as true ribs (1–7) and false ribs (8–12). The last two pairs of false ribs are also known as floating ribs (11–12). From Betts, et al., 2013. Licensed under CC BY 4.0. [Image description.]

Ribs

There are 12 sets of ribs and can be divided as such:

•  7 true ribs as they are attached to the front of the sternum
•  3 false ribs as they are attached to the cartilage that joins the sternum
•  2 floating ribs as they are not attached to the front of the sternum

Sternum

The sternum, also known as the breast bone, is divided into 3 parts:

• manubrium – the upper portion of the breast bone
• body – the middle portion of the breast bone
• xiphoid process – the lower portion of the breast bone and is made up of cartilage

Answer the following questions:

• What is the medical term for the upper jaw bone and for the lower jaw bone?
• What medical term is used for the bones of the inner ear?
• How many bones make up the cervical region of the vertebral column?

The Appendicular Skeleton

The appendicular skeleton includes all bones of the upper and lower limbs, plus the bones that attach each limb to the axial skeleton. There are 126 bones in the appendicular skeleton of an adult.

Bones of the Pectoral Girdle

• Scapula – the shoulder blades
• Clavicle – the collar bones. It connects the sternum to the scapula
• Acromion – the extension that forms the bony point of the shoulder

Bones of the Upper Limbs

The bones of the upper limbs include the bones of the arms, wrists, and hands.

Bones of the Arm

• Humerus – the bone in upper arm
• Radius – the bone that runs thumb-side of the forearm
• Ulna – the bone that runs on the side of the little finger of the forearm

Figure 16.4 Ulna and Radius. The ulna is located on the medial side of the forearm, and the radius is on the lateral side. These bones are attached to each other by an interosseous membrane. From Betts, et al., 2013. Licensed under CC BY 4.0. [Image description.]

Bones of the Wrist and Hand

• Carpals – the wrist bones
• Metacarpals – the bones in the palm of hand
• Phalanges – the finger and toe bones

Each phalanx has three bones: the distal, medial, and proximal. The exception is the thumb and big toe which has two bones: distal and proximal. See Fig 16.5 below. There are 30 bones in each upper limb. Can you count them on your limb?

Figure 16.5 Bones of the Hands. From Betts, et al., 2013. Licensed under CC BY 4.0. [Image description.]

Bones of the Pelvic Region

The bones of the pelvic region protect the reproductive, urinary, and excretory organs.

• Pelvic girdle – the hip or coxal bone.  It is formed by the fusion of three bones during adolescence
• Illium – the largest part of the hip bone
• Ischium – the lower portion of pelvic girdle
• Pubis – the anterior portion of pelvic girdle
• Pelvis – consists of four bones: the left and right hip bones as well as the sacrum and coccyx
• Acetabulum – the large socket in the pelvic bones that holds the head of the femur

The shape of the pelvic girdle is different for males than females. In the male, it is a funnel shape. In the female it is shaped like a basin to accommodate for the fetus during pregnancy.

Bones of the Lower Limbs

The bones of the lower limb include bones of the leg and the feet.

Bones of the Leg

• Femur – the thigh bone and is also referred to the upper leg bone. It is the longest and strongest bone in the human body
• Patella – the knee cap
• Tibia –    the shin bone. It is a medial bone and the main weight-bearing bone of the lower leg
• Fibula –  the smaller of the lower leg bone (see Figure 16.6)

Figure 16.6 Tibia and Fibula. The tibia is the larger, weight-bearing bone located on the medial side of the leg. The fibula is the slender bone of the lateral side of the leg and does not bear weight. From Betts, et al., 2013. Licensed under CC BY 4.0. [Image description.]

Bones of the Ankles and Feet

• Tarsals – the ankle bones (7 total)
• Malleous – the bony protrusions of the ankle bones
• Talus – the superior ankle bones
• Calcaneous – the heel bones
• Metatarsals – the foot bones
• Phalanges – the bones of the toes (see Figure 16.7)

Figure 16.7 Bones of the Foot. The bones of the foot are divided into three groups. The posterior foot is formed by the seven tarsal bones. The mid-foot has the five metatarsal bones. The toes contain the phalanges. From Betts, et al., 2013. Licensed under CC BY 4.0. [Image description.]

Answer the following questions:

• Is the humerus the same as the funny bone?
• What is the medical term for the kneecap?

Anatomy Labeling Activity

Physiology (Function) of the Skeletal System

The bones of the skeletal system is comprised of an inner spongy tissue referred to as bone marrow. There are two types of bone marrow, red and yellow. The red bone marrow produces the red blood cells and it does so by a process called . The yellow bone marrow contains adipose tissues which can be a source of energy. The bones of the skeletal system also store minerals such as calcium and phosphate. These minerals are important for the physiological processes in the body and are released into the bloodstream when levels are low in the body.

Joints

Watch this video:

Media 16.2. Joints: Crash Course A&P #20 [Online video]. Copyright 2015 by CrashCourse.

Most bones connect to at least one other bone in the body. The area where bones meet bones or where bones meet cartilage are called .  Joints can be classified based on their ability to move. At movable joints, the articulating surfaces of the adjacent bones can move smoothly against each other. However, other joints may be connected to each other by connective tissue or cartilage. These joints are designed for stability and provide for little or no movement. Importantly, joint stability and movement are related to each other. This means that stable joints allow for little or no mobility between the adjacent bones. Conversely, joints that provide the most movement between bones are the least stable.

Based on the function of joints, there are 3 types of joints:

• Synarthrosis joints which allow no movement
  •  example: joints of the skull
• Amphiarthrosis joints which allow some movement
  •  example: joints of the pubic symphysis
• Diarthrosis joints which allow for free movement
  •  example: joints of the knee

Structures associated with joints are:

• Cartilage –  the elastic connective tissue that is found at the ends of bones, nose tip, etc.
• Synovial membrane – the lining or covering of synovial joints
• Synovial fluid – the lubricating fluid found between synovial joints
• Ligaments – the tough, elastic connective tissue that connects bone to bone
• Tendons– the fibrous connective tissue that attaches muscle to bone
• Bursa – the closed, fluid-filled sacs that works as a cushion
• Meniscus – C_shaped cartilage that act as shock absorbers between bones

Body Movements

Synovial joints are movable joints and provide most of the body movements.  Body movement occurs when the bones, joints and muscles work together.

Figure 16.8 Movements of the Body, Part 1. Synovial joints give the body many ways in which to move. (a) and (b) Flexion and extension motions are in the sagittal (anterior and posterior) plane of motion. These movements take place at the shoulder, hip, elbow, knee, wrist, metacarpophalangeal, metatarsophalangeal, and interphalangeal joints. (c) and (d) Anterior bending of the head or vertebral column is flexion, while any posterior-going movement is extension. (e) Abduction and adduction are motions of the limbs, hand, fingers, or toes in the coronal (medial and lateral) plane of movement. Moving the limb or hand laterally away from the body, or spreading the fingers or toes, is abduction. Adduction brings the limb or hand toward or across the midline of the body, or brings the fingers or toes together. Circumduction is the movement of the limb, hand, or fingers in a circular pattern, using the sequential combination of flexion, adduction, extension, and abduction motions. Adduction/abduction and circumduction take place at the shoulder, hip, wrist, metacarpophalangeal, and metatarsophalangeal joints. (f) Turning of the head side to side or twisting of the body is rotation. Medial and lateral rotation of the upper limb at the shoulder or lower limb at the hip involves turning the anterior surface of the limb toward the midline of the body (medial or internal rotation) or away from the midline (lateral or external rotation). From Betts, et al., 2013. Licensed under CC BY 4.0. [Image description.]

Flexion and Extension

Flexion and extension are movements that take place within the sagittal plane and involve anterior or posterior movements of the body or limbs. For the vertebral column, flexion (anterior flexion) is an anterior (forward) bending of the neck or body, while extension involves a posterior-directed motion, such as straightening from a flexed position or bending backward. Lateral flexion is the bending of the neck or body toward the right or left side. These movements of the vertebral column involve both the joints as well as the associated intervertebral disc.

In the limbs, flexion decreases the angle between the bones (bending of the joint), while extension increases the angle and straightens the joint (see Figure 16.8(a-d)). You will discover in the muscular system chapter that the associated muscles to these movements are flexor and extensor.

Abduction and Adduction

and motions occur within the coronal plane and involve medial-lateral motions of the limbs, fingers, toes, or thumb.  For example, abduction is raising the arm at the shoulder joint, moving it laterally away from the body, while adduction brings the arm down to the side of the body (see Figure 16.8(e)). In the muscular system chapter you will discover that the associated muscles to these movements are abductor and adductor.

Circumduction

Circumduction is the movement of a body region in a circular manner, in which one end of the body region being moved stays relatively stationary while the other end describes a circle. It involves the sequential combination of flexion, adduction, extension, and abduction at a joint (see Figure 16.8(e)).

Rotation

Rotation can occur within the vertebral column, at a pivot joint, or at a ball-and-socket joint. Rotation of the neck or body is the twisting movement produced by the summation of the small rotational movements available between adjacent vertebrae. At a pivot joint, one bone rotates in relation to another bone.

Rotation can also occur at the ball-and-socket joints of the shoulder and hip. Here, the humerus and femur rotate around their long axis, which moves the anterior surface of the arm or thigh either toward or away from the midline of the body (see see Figure 16.8(f)).

Figure 16.9 Movements of the Body, Part 2. (g) Supination of the forearm turns the hand to the palm forward position in which the radius and ulna are parallel, while forearm pronation turns the hand to the palm backward position in which the radius crosses over the ulna to form an "X." (h) Dorsiflexion of the foot at the ankle joint moves the top of the foot toward the leg, while plantar flexion lifts the heel and points the toes. (i) Eversion of the foot moves the bottom (sole) of the foot away from the midline of the body, while foot inversion faces the sole toward the midline. (j) Protraction of the mandible pushes the chin forward, and retraction pulls the chin back. (k) Depression of the mandible opens the mouth, while elevation closes it. (l) Opposition of the thumb brings the tip of the thumb into contact with the tip of the fingers of the same hand and reposition brings the thumb back next to the index finger. From Betts, et al., 2013. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.

Supination and Pronation

Supination and pronation are movements of the forearm. In the anatomical position, the upper limb is held next to the body with the palm facing forward. This is the supinated position of the forearm. In this position, the radius and ulna are parallel to each other. When the palm of the hand faces backward, the forearm is in the pronated position, and the radius and ulna form an X-shape.

Pronation is the movement that allows the palm of the hand to face backward while in supination the palm of the hand faces forward. It helps to remember that supination is the motion you use when scooping up soup with a spoon (see Figure 16.9(g)).

Dorsiflexion and Plantar Flexion

Dorsiflexion and plantar flexion are movements at the ankle joint, which is a hinge joint. Lifting the front of the foot, so that the top of the foot moves (upward) toward the anterior leg is dorsiflexion, while lifting the heel of the foot from the ground or pointing the toes downward is plantar flexion. These are the only movements available at the ankle joint (see Figure 16.9(h)).

Inversion and Eversion

Inversion and eversion are complex movements that involve the multiple plane joints among the tarsal bones of the posterior foot (intertarsal joints) and thus are not motions that take place at the ankle joint. Inversion is the turning of the foot to angle the bottom of the foot toward the midline, while eversion turns the bottom of the foot away from the midline. The foot has a greater range of inversion than eversion motion. These are important motions that help to stabilize the foot when walking or running on an uneven surface and aid in the quick side-to-side changes in direction used during active sports such as basketball, racquetball, or soccer (see Figure 16.9(i)).

Protraction and Retraction

Protraction and retraction are anterior-posterior movements of the scapula or mandible. Protraction of the scapula occurs when the shoulder is moved forward, as when pushing against something or throwing a ball. Retraction is the opposite motion, with the scapula being pulled posteriorly and medially, toward the vertebral column. For the mandible, protraction occurs when the lower jaw is pushed forward, to stick out the chin, while retraction pulls the lower jaw backward (see Figure 16.9(j)).

Depression and Elevation

Depression and elevation are downward and upward movements of the scapula or mandible. The upward movement of the scapula and shoulder is elevation, while a downward movement is depression. These movements are used to shrug your shoulders. Similarly, elevation of the mandible is the upward movement of the lower jaw used to close the mouth or bite on something, and depression is the downward movement that produces opening of the mouth (see Figure 16.9(k)).

• Discuss the joints involved and movements required for you to cross your arms together in front of your chest.
• Differentiate between pronation and supination.

Musculoskeletal System Movement Terms

Medical Terms in Context

Common Diseases and Disorders

Osteoporosis

Health Canada (2018) describes as bone loss that causes bones to become weak and thin over time. This weakness can lead to fractures from simple movements and occur often in the wrist, shoulder, spine, and hip. To learn more about osteoporosis please visit the Osteoporosis Health Canada website.

Arthritis

  often presents as , , and (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2019). Common types of arthritis are (OA), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), , Gout and lupus. To learn more about arthritis visit the CDC's Arthritis Basics web page.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and according to the Arthritis Society affects Canadians more than the combination of all other types of arthritis. The breakdown of cartilage and bone occurs over time when joints are exposed to heavy workloads either through occupation, obesity and/or prior injury to a joint. Common symptoms are pain, stiffness and aching that worsens over time. While there is no cure, symptoms can be managed through exercise, medications and in severe cases joint replacements (Arthritis Society, 2020).

Rheumatoid arthritis

The CDC describes rheumatoid arthritis (RA) as an autoimmune and inflammatory disease. Autoimmune diseases are disorders in which the immune system over reacts and begins to attack itself.  In the case of RA inflammation to the joint tissues of the hands, wrists and knees is painful and debilitating. Treatments may include immunosuppressive drugs and anti-inflammatory drugs (Betts, et al., 2013). RA can also affect other tissues throughout the body and cause problems in organs such as the lungs, heart, and eyes. RA can affect children and in this case it is referred to as juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2020a).

Gout

According to the Arthritis Society, gout is an inflammatory arthritis caused when the immune system attacks the crystals that form when uric acid builds up in a joint. Gout has periods of and remission and is commonly treated through lifestyle changes and medication. While any joint can be effected it is common in the lower extremities and most often in the big toe (Choy & MacMullan, 2017). To learn more about the causes and treatments please visit the Arthritis Society's web page about gout.

Myasthenia Gravis

The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Strokes describes as a autoimmune neuromuscular disorder that causes weakness in the skeletal muscle" (Office of Communications and Public Liaison, 2020). To learn more,  visit the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke's Myasthenia Gravis fact sheet.

Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a challenging disease to diagnose since symptoms manifest differently and are similar to other diseases. Symptoms may include chronic fatigue, gastrointestinal problems, headaches and increased pain sensitivity. Historically, fibromyalgia was often misdiagnosed or dismissed as not real. According to The Canadian Women's Health Network, there is agreement on the definition and treatment for fibromyalgia but it is recommended to find a specialist who is familiar with fibromyalgia (Canadian Women's Health Network, 2012). To learn more about the diagnosis and treatment for fibromyalgia please visit the Canadian Women's Health Network's fibromyalgia web page.

Osteomyelitis

Osteomyelitis is a bone infection caused when staphylococcus bacteria travels through the blood stream from an infection in one part of the body to the bone. Staphylococcus bacteria is found on the skin and it can transfer to the bone through a wound and/or surgical contamination. The risk increases as people age or if their immune system is compromised (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2018). To learn more about the causes, symptoms and treatments for osteomyelitis please visit the Mayo Clinic's osteomyelitis web page.

Disorders of the Curvature of the Spine

Developmental anomalies, pathological changes, or obesity can enhance the normal vertebral column curves, resulting in the development of abnormal or excessive curvatures (see Figure 16.10). Disorders associated with the curvature of the spine include:

• Kyphosis: Also referred to as humpback, is an excessive posterior curvature of the thoracic region. This can develop when osteoporosis causes weakening and erosion of the anterior portions of the upper thoracic vertebrae, resulting in their gradual collapse (see Figure 16.11).
• Lordosis: Also referred to as swayback, is an excessive anterior curvature of the lumbar region and is most commonly associated with obesity or late pregnancy. The accumulation of body weight in the abdominal region results an anterior shift in the line of gravity that carries the weight of the body. This causes in an anterior tilt of the pelvis and a pronounced enhancement of the lumbar curve.
• Scoliosis: An abnormal, lateral curvature, accompanied by twisting of the vertebral column. Scoliosis is the most common vertebral abnormality among girls. The cause is usually unknown, but it may result from weakness of the back muscles, defects such as differential growth rates in the right and left sides of the vertebral column, or differences in the length of the lower limbs. When present, scoliosis tends to get worse during adolescent growth spurts. Although most individuals do not require treatment, a back brace may be recommended for growing children. In extreme cases, surgery may be required (Betts, et al., 2013).

Figure 16.10 Abnormal Curvatures of the Vertebral Column. (a) Scoliosis is an abnormal lateral bending of the vertebral column. (b) An excessive curvature of the upper thoracic vertebral column is called kyphosis. (c) Lordosis is an excessive curvature in the lumbar region of the vertebral column. From Betts, et al., 2013. Licensed under CC BY 4.0. [Image description.]

Figure 16.11. Osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is an age-related disorder that causes the gradual loss of bone density and strength. When the thoracic vertebrae are affected, there can be a gradual collapse of the vertebrae. This results in kyphosis, an excessive curvature of the thoracic region. From Betts, et al., 2013. Licensed under CC BY 4.0. [Image description.]

Fractures

A fracture is a broken bone. It will heal whether or not a physician resets it in its anatomical position. If the bone is not reset correctly, the healing process will keep the bone in its deformed position. Crepitation or crepitus  is the creaking or popping sound that is heard when fractured bones move against each other Fractures are classified by their complexity, location, and other features (see Figure 16.12).  Some fractures may be described using more than one term because it may have the features of more than one type (e.g., an open transverse fracture) (Betts, et al., 2013; Canadian Orthopaedics Foundation, n.d.).

Types of fractures include:

• Closed or simple  – bones are broken but does not protrude the skin
• Open or compound – bones are broken and pierce through the skin
• Transverse – bone is broken straight across
• Spiral – bone has twisted apart
• Comminuted –bones are broken and crushed into pieces
• Greenstick – bones are partially broken; occurs mainly in children
• Oblique – bones are broken at an angle
• Coles – bones are broken and occurs at the wrist or distal radius
• Stress – small crack in bone

Figure 16.12. Types of Fractures. Compare healthy bone with different types of fractures: (a) closed fracture, (b) open fracture, (c) transverse fracture, (d) spiral fracture, (e) comminuted fracture, (f) impacted fracture, (g) greenstick fracture, and (h) oblique fracture. From Betts, et al., 2013. Licensed under CC BY 4.0. [Image description.]

Bone Cancer

There are three types of primary bone cancers: osteosarcoma, Ewing Sarcomas and chondrosarcoma. These are considered primary cancers because they originate in the bones. Osteosarcoma and Ewing Sarcomas are cancers found in children, teenagers, and young adults. Ewing Sarcomas is considered to be the more aggressive of the two cancers since it tends to quickly. Osteosarcoma is the most common type of bone cancer and it begins in the tissues of growing bones. Chondrosarcoma is a slow-growing bone cancer that affects adults and rarely metastasizes (Government of Canada, 2013). To learn more, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada's web page on bone cancer.

Diagnostic Procedures

Common diagnostic procedures related specifically to the skeletal system include x-rays, bone mineral density testing, and arthroscopy.

• X-rays are common diagnostic tests used to confirm or rule out fractures and broken bones. The radiation dose is low so it is considered a safe diagnostic test (Ontario Association of Radiologist, 2020).
• Dual x-ray absorptionmetry (BMD), also called a bone mineral density test, is a test to determine osteoporosis by measuring the amount of bone mineral in a particular amount of bone (National Cancer Insitute, n.d.).
• Arthroscopy is a common procedure performed by orthopedic surgeons to view the inside of a joint to diagnose and/or to repair joint problems. The patient is given a local anesthetic and the surgeon inserts an through an incision in the skin. Depending on what the surgeons finds, a repair of the joint may take place during the procedure (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2018a).

Medical Specialties Related to the Skeletal System

Orthopedic Surgeon

Orthopedic Surgeons are medical doctors who complete an additional 5-years of specialized training in the prevention, diagnosis, treatment and surgery of disorders and diseases related to the musculoskeletal systems (Canadian Medical Association, 2018). For more details please visit the Canadian Medical Association's page on Orthopedic Surgery (PDF file).

Rheumatologist

Rheumatologists are medical doctors who have additional training as internists with a sub-specialty in rheumatology. Many rheumatology disorders have an underlying autoimmune disorders. Subsequently, rheumatologists are interested in autoimmune disorders and their impact on multiple body systems including the musculoskeletal systems (Canadian Medical Association, 2018a). For more details please follow the link to the Canadian Medical Association's page on Rheumatology (PDF file).

Doctor of Chiropractic (DC)/Chiropractor

A Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) is regulated and licensed by each province in Canada. Chiropractors have seven years of University Education, a supervised internship, and national examinations. Chiropractors are trained in the prevention, assessment and treatment of the spine, muscular system and nervous system. Chiropractors focus on spinal adjustments, nutrition, and preventing injury without the use of pharmaceuticals or surgical procedures (Canadian Chiropractic Association, 2020; 2020a).. To learn more visit the Canadian Chiropractic Association website.

Physiotherapist

A physiotherapist in Canada has a Master's degree in physiotherapy and has successfully completed a national Physiotherapy Competency Examination (PCE). Physiotherapists use an evidenced-based approach when assessing and designing treatment plans for their clients. Treatments may include exercises, massage, joint manipulation, and occupational retraining (Canadian Physiotherapy Association, 2020). To learn more please visit the Canadian Physiotherapy Association website.

Skeletal System Vocabulary

Amphiarthrosis

Joints with some movement.

Ankylosis

Abnormal condition of stiffness.

Appendicular Skeleton

Consists of all the bones in the upper and lower limbs.

Arthralgia

Painful joint(s).

Arthritis

Inflammation of the joints.

Articulations

Also known as joints. It is where bones meet bones or bones meet bones.

Autoimmune Diseases/Disorders

Autoimmune diseases are disorders in which the immune system over reacts and begins to attack itself.

Axial Skeleton

Forms the vertical, central axis of the body and includes all bones of the head, neck, chest, and back.

Chronic

A condition that lasts a long time with periods of remission and exacerbation.

Diarthrosis

Freely moveable joints.

Edema

Swelling.

Hematopoiesis

The process in which the body produces blood.

Osteoarthritis

Inflammation of bones and joints.

Osteoporosis

Abnormal condition of bones that are porous.

Synarthrosis

Joints with no movements.

Test Yourself

References

Arthritis Society. (2020). Osteoarthritis. https://arthritis.ca/about-arthritis/arthritis-types-(a-z)/types/osteoarthritis

Canadian Chiropractic Association. (2020). Regulation and education. https://www.chiropractic.ca/about-chiropractic/canadian-chiropractors/regulation-and-education/

Canadian Chiropractic Association. (2020a). How our experts can help. https://www.chiropractic.ca/about-chiropractic/how-our-experts-can-help/

Canadian Medical Association. (2018, August). Orthopedic surgery profile. CMA Specialty Profiles. https://www.cma.ca/sites/default/files/2019-01/orthopedic-surgery-e.pdf

Canadian Medical Association. (2018a, August). Rheumatology profile. CMA Specialty Profiles. https://www.cma.ca/sites/default/files/2019-01/rheumatology-e.pdf

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Image Descriptions

Figure 16.1 image description: This diagram shows the human skeleton and identifies the major bones. The left panel shows the anterior view (from the front) and the right panel shows the posterior view (from the back). Labels read (from the top of skull): skull (cranial portion, facial portion), pectoral shoulder girdle, clavicle, scapula, thoracic cage (sternum, ribs), upper limb (humerus, ulna, radius, carpals, meta carpals, phalanges), vertebral column, pelvic girdle (hip bones), lower limb (femur, patella, tibia, fibula, tarsals, metatarsals, phalanges). [Return to Figure 16.1].

Figure 16.2 image description: This image shows the structure of the vertebral column. The left panel shows the front view of the vertebral column. Labels and the right panel shows the side view of the vertebral column. labels read (from top): 7 cervical vertebrae (C1-C7) form cervical curve, 12 thoracic vertebrae (T1-T12) form thoracic curve, intervertebral disc, 5 lumbar vertebrae (L1-L5) form lumbar curve, Fused vertebrae of sacrum and coccyx form sacrococcygeal curve, sacrum, coccyx. [Return to Figure 16.2].

Figure 16.3 image description: This figure shows the skeletal structure of the rib cage. The left panel shows the anterior view of the sternum. Labels read (from top): clavicular notch, jugular notch, manubrium, sternal angle, body, xiphoid process. The right panel shows the anterior panel of the sternum including the entire rib cage. Labels read (from top): jugular notch, clavicular notch, clavicle, sternum (manubrium, body, xyphoid process), scapula, sternal angle, costal cartilages, intercostal space. Ribs are numbered 1-12 from the top. [Return to Figure 16.3].

Figure 16.4 image description: This diagram labels the bones of the lower arm (excluding the hands). Labels read (from top): olecranon process, head of radius, radial notch of the ulna, trochlear notch, coronoid process, radial tuberosity, proximal radioulnar joint, neck of radius, radius, interosseous membrane, ulna, ulnar notch of the radius, head of the ulna, distal radioulnar joint, styloid process of ulna, styloid process of radius. [Return to Figure 16.4].

Figure 16.5 image description: This diagram shows an anterior and posterior view of the hands with corresponding labels. Anterior view labels read (from top): middle finger, ring finger, index finger, little finger, thumb, phalanges (distal, proximal), metacarpals, carpals, ulna, radius. Posterior view lables read (frop top): Phalanges (distal, middle, proximal), head shaft and base of proximal phalange, head shaft and base of metatarsal, metatarsals 1-5, carpals, ulna, radius. [Return to Figure 16.5].

Figure 16.6 image description: This image shows the structure of the tibia and the fibula. The left panel shows the anterior view. Labels read (from top): lateral condyle, medial condyle, tibial tuberosity, anterior border, interosseous membrane, fibula, tibia, medial malleolus, lateral malleolus, articular surface.The right panel shows the posterior view. Labels read (from top): articular surface of medial and lateral condyles, medial condyle, head of fibula, soleal line, interosseous membrane, tibla, fibula, medial malleolus, lateral malleolus, articular surface. [Return to Figure 16.6].

Figure 16.7 image description: This figure shows the bones of the foot. The left panel shows the superior view. Labels read (from toes): distal, proximal phalanges, distal phalage, middle phalange, proximal phalange, medial cuneiform, intermediate and lateral cuneiforms, navicular, cuboid, talus, trochlea of talus, calcaneus. The top right panel shows the medial view. Labels read (from left to right starting at toe): first metatarsal, medial cuneiform, intermediate cuneiform, navicular, talus, calcaneus, facet for medial malleolus, sustentaculum tali (talar shelf), calcaneal tuberosity. The bottom right panel shows the lateral view. Labels read (from left at the heel, to right): calcaneus, talus, facelt for lateral malleolus, cuboid, navicular, intermediate and lateral cuneiforms, fifth metatarsal. [Return to Figure 16.7].

Figure 16.8 image description: This multi-part image shows different types of movements that are possible by different joints in the body. Labels read (from top, left): a and b angular movements: flexion and extension at the shoulders and knees, c) angular movements: flexion and extension of the neck (arrows pointing left and right to indicate movement). Labels (from bottom, left) read: d) angular movements: flexion and extension of the vertical column, e) angular movements abduction, adduction, and cicumduction of the upper limb at the shoulder, f) rotation of the head, neck, and lower limb. [Return to Figure 16.8].

Figure 16.10 image description: This image shows the changes to the abnormal curves of the vertebral columns in different diseases. The left panel shows the change in the curve of the vertebral column in scoliosis, the middle panel shows the change in the curve of the vertebral column in kyphosis, and the right panel shows the change in the curve of the vertebral column in lordosis. [Return to Figure 16.10].

Figure 16.11 image description: This figure shows the changes to the spine in osteoporosis. The left panel shows the structure of normal vertebrae and the right panel shows the curved vertebrae in osteoporosis. [Return to Figure 16.11].

Figure 16.12 image description: In this illustration, each type of fracture is shown on the right femur from an anterior view. In the closed fracture, the femur is broken in the middle of the shaft with the upper and lower halves of the bone completely separated. However, the two halves of the bones are still aligned in that the broken edges are still facing each other. In an open fracture, the femur is broken in the middle of the shaft with the upper and lower halves of the bone completely separated. Unlike the closed fracture, in the open fracture, the two bone halves are misaligned. The lower half is turned laterally and it has protruded through the skin of the thigh. The broken ends no longer line up with each other. In a transverse fracture, the bone has a crack entirely through its width, however, the broken ends are not separated. The crack is perpendicular to the long axis of the bone. Arrows indicate that this is usually caused by compression of the bone in a superior-inferior direction. A spiral fracture travels diagonally through the diameter of the bone. In a comminuted fracture, the bone has several connecting cracks at its middle. It is possible that the bone could splinter into several small pieces at the site of the comminuted fracture. In an impacted fracture, the crack zig zags throughout the width of the bone like a lightning bolt. An arrow indicates that these are usually caused by an impact that pushes the femur up into the body. A greenstick fracture is a small crack that does not extend through the entire width of the bone. The oblique fracture shown here is travelling diagonally through the shaft of the femur at about a thirty degree angle. [Return to Figure 16.12].

Unless otherwise indicated, this chapter contains material adapted from Anatomy and Physiology (on OpenStax), by Betts, et al. and is used under a a CC BY 4.0 international license. Download and access this book for free at https://openstax.org/books/anatomy-and-physiology/pages/1-introduction.

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Source: https://ecampusontario.pressbooks.pub/medicalterminology/chapter/musculoskeletal-system/

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