Medical-surgical Nursing Demystified

(^262) Medical-Surgical Nursing Demystified

How the Musculoskeletal System Works

The musculoskeletal system provides both structure and function for the body. The

bones protect and support the vital organs. The skeleton is divided into the axial

and appendicular areas. The axial skeleton protects the vital organs, surrounding

the central nervous system and thoracic cavity. The appendicular skeleton attaches

to the axial skeleton and consists primarily of the limbs. Bones are classified by

both their shape and their composition. Short bones (like the phalanges) are found

in the fingers and toes. Long bones (like the humerus or femur) are found in the

limbs. Irregular bones are named for their shapes and are found in the joints of

the ankle or wrist and in the middle ear. Flat bones (ribs or scapula) protect inner

organs. The outer layer of bone tissue is a dense compact bone tissue called the

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Fractures

Gout

Osteoarthritis

Osteomyelitis

Osteoporosis

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Key Terms

Abduction
Adduction
Bursa
Cartilage
Circumduction
Connective tissues

Eversion

Extension

Flexion

Inversion

Osteoblasts

Osteoclasts

Pronation

Rotation

Supination

Synovial joints

Synovium

Tendons

Learning Objectives