Term | Definition |
Ankylosis | fixation of a joint, usually in an abnormal position resulting from destruction of cartilage or bone |
Arthrocentesis | puncture of a joint with a needle to withdraw fluid used for diagnostic purposes. |
Bipolar hip replacement | prosthetic implant used to replace the femoral head and neck in hip fractures when the vascular supply to the femoral head is or may become compromised. |
Blanching test | a test of the rate of capillary refill. |
Callus | bony deposits formed between and around the broken ends of a fractured bone during healing. |
Colles' fracture | a fracture of the distal portion of the radius within 1 inch of the wrist. |
Crepitus | sounds that represent the grating noise heard when rubbing hair between fingers. It is associated with broken bones. |
Fibromyalgia | a musculoskeletal chronic pain syndrome of unknown etiology that causes pain in the muscles, bones or joints. |
Kyphosis | an abnormal condition of the vertebral column, characterized by increased convexity in the curvature of the thoracic spine, causing a “hump-back” appearance. |
Lordosis | an increase in the curve at the lumbar space region that throws the shoulders back. |
Open reduction with internal fixation | a surgical procedure allowing fracture alignment under direct visualization while using various internal fixation devices applied to the bone. |
Paresthesia | any subjective sensation, such as prickling "pins and needles" or feeling of numbness. |
Scoliosis | curvature of the spine usually consisting of two curves; the original abnormal curve and a compensatory curve in the opposite direction. This results in an "S" shaped appearance |
Sequestrum | a fragment of necrotic bone that is partially or entirely detached from the adjacent healthy bone. |
Subluxation | temporary, partial or incomplete dislocation that involves stretching the joint capsule |
Volkmann's contracture | a permanent contracture of the hand. Clawhand appearance with flexion of the wrist and fingers, and forearm atrophy, related to compartment syndrome |