Results for "Arthritis"
Conditions Encyclopedia Entry 1775549584
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by inflammation and pain in the joints, leading to potential long-term damage and disability.
Health & MedicineAnatomy Encyclopedia Entry 1781821566
** This article provides a comprehensive overview of the human **skeletal system**, a complex network of bones, joints, and ligaments that provide support, protection, and movement to the body. **CONTENT:** ### Overview The human **skeletal system** is a vital component of the body's musculoskeletal system, responsible for providing structural support, facilitating movement, and protecting internal organs. It consists of 206 bones, which are connected by joints, ligaments, and tendons. The skeletal system is divided into two main categories: the **axial skeleton**, which includes the skull, spine, ribs, and sternum, and the **appendicular skeleton**, which includes the upper and lower limbs, pelvis, and shoulder girdle. The skeletal system plays a crucial role in maintaining the body's posture, facilitating movement, and providing a framework for muscle attachment. It also serves as a storage site for minerals such as calcium and phosphorus, which are essential for various bodily functions. The skeletal system is dynamic, with bones constantly undergoing remodeling and repair throughout life. ### History/Background The study of the skeletal system dates back to ancient civilizations, with evidence of anatomical knowledge found in the works of ancient Greeks such as **Hippocrates** and **Galen**. However, it was not until the 16th century that the first comprehensive descriptions of the human skeleton were published by **Andreas Vesalius**, a Flemish anatomist who is often credited with laying the foundations of modern anatomy. Throughout history, advances in imaging technologies such as X-rays and CT scans have greatly improved our understanding of the skeletal system. Today, the study of anatomy is a multidisciplinary field that incorporates knowledge from biology, physics, and engineering to understand the complex interactions between bones, joints, and soft tissues. ### Key Information **Key bones and joints:** * **Skull**: The skull is composed of 22 bones that fuse together during childhood to form a single unit. * **Spine**: The spine is a complex structure that consists of 33 vertebrae, which are divided into five regions: cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacrum, and coccyx. * **Shoulder joint**: The shoulder joint is a ball-and-socket joint that connects the humerus (upper arm bone) to the scapula (shoulder blade). * **Hip joint**: The hip joint is a ball-and-socket joint that connects the femur (thigh bone) to the pelvis. **Diseases and disorders:** * **Osteoporosis**: A condition characterized by a decrease in bone density, leading to increased risk of fractures. * **Arthritis**: A condition characterized by inflammation and degeneration of joints, leading to pain and stiffness. * **Bone cancer**: A type of cancer that affects the bones, often causing pain, swelling, and fractures. ### Significance The skeletal system is essential for maintaining the body's overall health and function. Any damage or disease affecting the skeletal system can have significant consequences, including pain, disability, and even death. Understanding the anatomy of the skeletal system is crucial for the development of effective treatments and prevention strategies for various diseases and disorders. **INFOBOX:** - Name: Skeletal System - Type: Human Anatomy - Date: Ancient civilizations (Hippocrates, Galen) to modern times - Location: Entire body - Known For: Providing structural support, facilitating movement, and protecting internal organs **TAGS:** Skeletal System, Human Anatomy, Bones, Joints, Ligaments, Tendons, Osteoporosis, Arthritis, Bone Cancer.