Unit 4: The Skeleton

Physiology and Anatomy
Unit 4: The Skeleton
Objectives
1) Compare and contrast the histology, location, function of cartilage, compact and spongy bone.
a) List and describe five important functions of bone.
b) Compare and contrast the structure of the four bone classes and provide examples of each class.
c) Describe the gross anatomy of a typical long bone. Indicate the locations and functions of red and yellow marrow,
articular cartilage, periosteum and endosteum.
d) Distinguish clearly between the several types of bone markings and note their relative functions.
e) Discuss the chemical composition of bone and the relative advantages conferred by its organic and its inorganic
components.
f) Describe the process of long bone growth that occurs at the epiphyseal plates.
2) Identify the bones of the axial and appendicular skeletons and describe their relative functions.
a) Name, describe and identify the bones of the skull. Identify their important markings.
b) Describe the general structure of the vertebral column and lists its components.
c) Indicate a common function of the spinal curvatures and the intervertebral discs.
d) Discuss the structure of a typical vertebra and then describe the special features of cervical, thoracic and lumbar
vertebrae.
e) Name and describe the bones of the bony thorax.
f) Identify the bones forming the pectoral girdle and relate their structure and arrangement to the function of this girdle.
g) Identify important bone markings on the pectoral girdle.
h) Identify or name the bones of the upper and lower limbs and their important markings.
i) Name the bones contributing to the ossa coxae and relate the strength of the pelvic girdle to its function.
j) Describe the differences in the anatomy of the male and female pelvis and relate these to functional differences.
3) Classify joints according to their structure and function.
a) Define joint or articulation.
b) Describe the general structure of fibrous joints. Name and give examples of each of the three common types of fibrous
joints.
c) Describe the general structure of cartilaginous joints. Name and give an example of each of the two common types of
cartilaginous joints.
d) Describe the structural characteristics shared by all synovial joints.
e) Compare the structures and functions of bursae and tendon sheaths.
f) Name and describe (or perform) the common body movements.
g) Name six types of synovial joints based on the movement(s) allowed. Provide an example of each type.
h) Describe the elbow, knee, hip and shoulder joints. Consider in each case the articulating bones, anatomical
characteristics of the joint, movements allowed and relative joint stability.
4) Describe the homeostatic processes and imbalances associated with bones and joints.
a) Compare the locations and functions of the osteocytes, osteoblasts and osteoclasts in bone remodeling.
b) Explain how hormonal controls and physical stress regulate bone remodeling.
c) Describe common types of bone fractures and the steps of fracture repair.
d) Describe how skeletal proportions change during childhood, adolescence and as we age.
e) Discuss briefly the factors that promote or disturb bone or joint homeostasis, and discuss the symptoms and problems
with associated disorders.