Achilles endon –The large tendon that attaches the muscles that form the larger part of the calf of the leg to the heel bone.

Acromioclavicular Joint –The joint formed by the acromion of the scapula and the acromial extremity of the clavicle.

Acromion –The lateral triangular projection of the spine of the scapula that forms the point of the shoulder and articulates with the clavicle.

Allograft Bone –Bone tissue, used for grafting procedures, derived from a genetically dissimilar individual of the same species.

Alveolar Ridge –Jawbone ridge.

Amino Acid –An organic compound containing an amino group. Amino acids are fundamental constituents of all proteins.

Ankle –The part of the lower limb directly above the foot.

Annular Ligament —Name given to a number of ligaments that encircle various anatomies.

Anterior –Denoting the front surface of an area; often used to indicate the position of one structure relative to another.

Anterior Capsule —The anterior portion of a joint capsule.

Anterior Talocalcaneal Ligament – One of three ligaments uniting the talus and calcaneus.

Anterior Tibiofibular Ligament –The ligament that binds the anterior aspect of the tibiofibular syndesmosis.

Antigen –Any substance that induces a state of sensitivity, resistance to infection, or toxic substances, after a latent period, and which reacts with tissues of the sensitized subject.

Antigenic –The state or property of resisting a toxic substance.

Aorta –The largest artery in the body which has its origin at the heart. It gives off branches to the extremities, neck and major organs for the purpose of supplying oxygenated blood.

Aortitis – Inflammation of the aorta.

Apex –A narrowed or pointed end of an anatomical structure.

Appendicular Skeleton –The bony structure that makes up the shoulder girdle, upper extremity, pelvis and lower extremities.

Arthritis –Inflammation of a joint characterized by swelling, warmth, redness of the overlying skin, pain, and restriction of motion. Over two-hundred diseases may cause arthritis.

Arthrodesis –The surgical fusion of bones across a joint space, which limits movement; typically performed on the spine.

Arthrography –An X-ray technique for examining joints.

Arthropathy –Any disease or disorder involving a joint.

Arthroplasty –The surgical remodeling of a diseased or damaged joint.

Arthroscope –An instrument inserted into a joint cavity to view the interior of a joint and correct certain abnormalities.

Arthroscopy –The procedure of direct visualization of a joint, such as the knee joint, by means of an arthroscope.

Arthrotic Joint –A joint in which bone glides over bone without angular or rotational movement, i.e., the joints in the palm of the hand.

Articulating Surface –Implant or bone surfaces that touch each other. This is typically used in the context of referring to the polyethylene/metal interface of joint implants.

Articulation –In human anatomy, the point of contact between two bones.

Autogenous Bone –A bone that is self-producing.

Autograft Bone –A graft of bone tissue derived from the same individual.

Avascular Necrosis –The death of blood vessels surrounding bone or cartilage tissue.

Axial Skeleton –Articulated bones of head and vertebral column, i.e., head and trunk, as opposed to the appendicular skeleton, the articulated bones of the upper and lower limbs.

Ball-and-Socket Joint –A multiaxial synovial joint in which a more or less extensive sphere on the head of one bone fits into a rounded cavity in the other bone, as in the hip joint

Biceps Brachii Ligament – The tendon at the origin of the biceps muscle.

Bioabsorbable Polymer –A high molecular weight substance which a human body breaks down or metabolizes and absorbs.

Biocompatibility –Biologically similar, will not provoke a rejection or immune system response.

Biodegradation –The breakdown of organic materials into simple chemicals by biomechanical processes.

Bioelastic –A bio-material stress characteristic.

Biomechanical Strength –In reference to implants, it is a measure of physiological material stress relative to biologically similar human tissue.

Bipolar Prosthesis –A two-part femoral head prosthesis used for partial hips when an acetabular cup is not used.

Blood Coagulation –The process whereby blood is converted from a liquid to a solid state. This involves the interaction of coagulation factors leading to the production of the enzyme thromboplastin, which converts the soluble blood protein fibrinogen to the insoluble protein fibrin.

Bone –The extremely dense, hard connective tissue that forms the skeleton of the body. It is composed of a matrix of collagen fibers impregnated with bone salts (chiefly calcium carbonate and calcium phosphate). Individual bones may be classed as long, short, flat, or irregular. The outer layer of a bone is called the periosteum. The medullary cavity is lined with endosteum and contains the marrow. Bones not only form the skeleton but also act as stores for mineral salts and play an important part in the formation of blood cells.

Bone Cement –Adhesives used to fix prosthetic devices to bones and to cement bone to bone in difficult fractures. Synthetic resins are commonly used as cements. A mixture of monocalcium phosphate, monohydrate, alpha-tricalcium phosphate, and calcium carbonate with a sodium phosphate solution is also a useful bone paste.

Bone Derivative –A substance derived from bone tissue components and employed in the repair of bone tissue.

Bone Growth Stimulator –A device used to stimulate bone formation.

Bone Marrow (marrow) –The tissue contained within the internal cavities of the bones. At birth, these cavities are filled entirely with blood-forming myeloid tissue (red marrow), but later in life the marrow in the limb bones is replaced by fat (yellow marrow).

Bone Morphogenetic Proteins –Proteins that stimulate growth and development of bone.

Burring –To excavate, or create a depression in bone tissue.

Bursa –A tissue space (fibrous sac) that is lined with synovial membrane (joint tissue) and contains a small quantity of synovial fluid (joint fluid). Bursas are found in between tendon and bone, skin and bone and muscles. They function to facilitate fluid movement.

Bursitis –Inflammation of a bursa, occasionally accompanied by a calcific deposit.

Cadaver –A dead human body.

Calcaneofibular Ligament –The middle of the three fascicles that form the lateral collateral ligament of the ankle joint. Capitotriquetral Ligament–Ligament that binds the triquetrum and capitate in the carpus.

Calcaneus –The largest of the tarsal bones is situated at the lower and back part of the foot forming the heel.

Calcitonin –Hormone from the thyroid gland in man important in bone and calcium metabolism.

Calcium –A metallic element essential for normal development and body functions. An important constituent of bones and teeth. The matrix of bone, consisting principally of calcium phosphate, accounts for 95% percent of the body's calcium.

Cancellous Bone –The spongy or honey comb structure of some bone tissue; such as the ends of long bones.

Capitate –One of the carpal bones in the hand.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome –A condition where there is a disturbance of median nerve function in the wrist as the nerve passes through the carpal tunnel.

Carpal/Tarsal Tunnel Release –An orthopaedic surgical procedure which relieves the pressure exerted on the nerve within the carpal or tarsal tunnel.

Carpals –The eight small bones that comprise the wrist joint and serve to articulate with the metacarpal bones in the hand and the radius and the ulna in the forearm.

Carpometacarpal Ligaments –The ligaments uniting the metacarpal and carpal bones.

Cartilage –A dense connective tissue composed of a matrix of cells called chondroblasts, which become embedded in a matrix as chondrocytes. There are three types; hyaline–found in the nose and the movable joints; elastic—seen in the external ear; and fibrocartilage in the inter vertebral discs and tendons.

Carpocarpal Joints –Denoting the articulation between the two rows of carpal bones.

Carpometacarpal –Denoting the articulation between the carpal and metacarpal bones.

Capsular Ligaments –Thickened portions of the fibrous membrane of an articular capsule.

Cast Immobilization –A molded orthopaedic appliance that may be composed of fiberglass or plaster useful in the immobilization of a fracture site for the purposes of healing.

CCU–Critical Care Unit –The hospital ward for life threatening medical and surgical conditions.

Ceramics –Porcelain or porcelain-type materials used in orthopaedic work, such as dental implants.

Cervical –The neck region of the spinal column. It consists of seven vertebrae.

Chiropody –See Podiatry.

Chiropractor –Someone who treats diseases by manipulation, mainly of the vertebrae or the backbone; based on the theory that nearly all disorders can be traced to the incorrect alignment of bones.

Chondroblast –Cells that produces the matrix of cartilage.

Chondroclast –Cells that absorbs cartilage.

Chondrocyte –A cartilage cell embedded in the cartilage matrix.

Chondroblasts –Cells which form cartilage.

Chondromalacia –The degeneration of cartilage at a joint.

Clavicle –Also called the collar bone, it articulates with the shoulder on one end and the sternum on the other.

Clinical Studies –A process of strictly controlled tests performed over a long time period and with many patient subjects, as required by the FDA prior to approval of a device or compound for use on or in the human body.

Closed Reduction –The physical manipulation of a joint or bone externally (without making a surgical incision) to affect a joint relocation or a more proper anatomic alignment of broken bone fragments.

Cobalt Chrome –A cobalt-chrome-molybdenum alloy used in many surgical implants.

Collagen –A fibrous insoluble protein found in the connective tissue, including skin, bone, ligaments and cartilage. Collagen represents about 30% of the total body protein.

Collateral Trauma –A physical injury to bone tissue caused co-incident to the execution of an orthopaedic procedure, such as a knee joint replacement procedure that bruises leg muscles.

Colles' Fracture –Fracture of the lower end of the radius in which the lower fragment is displaced posteriorly.

Complex Fracture –A bone with multiple fractures. Generally internal or external fixation devices are required for stabilization and healing.

Compound Fracture –Fracture in which the bone is broken, and there is an external wound leading to the site of fracture or fragments of bone protruding through the skin.

Condyle –Rounded protuberance that occurs at the ends of some bones that articulate with another bone.

Conoid Ligament –The part of the coracoclavicular ligament that attaches to the conoid tubercle of the clavicle.

Contusion –A bruise, an injury of a part without a break in the skin.

Coracoacromial Ligament –The heavy arched fibrous band that passes between the coracoid process and the acromion above the shoulder joint. It prevents upward dislocation of the shoulder.

Coracohumeral Ligament – The ligament that passes from the base of the coracoid process to the greater tubercle of the humerus.

Coracoid Process –A long curved projection from the neck of the scapula overhanging the glenoid cavity. It is the attachment point of the short head of the biceps, the coracobrachialis, the pectoralis minor muscles, and the conoid and coracoacromial ligaments.

Cortical Bone –Dense bone structure composing the outer membrane of bone.

Corticosteroid –A group of drugs that possess pronounced anti-inflammatory activity. They also play a role in fat and protein metabolism, maintenance of arterial blood pressure, alteration of the connective tissue response to injury, reduction in the number of circulating lymphocytes, and functioning of the central nervous system.

COX-2 Inhibitor –A drug that specifically targets the COX-2 enzyme, halting the inflammatory response.

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome –A condition where there is a disturbance of nerve function in the elbow as the nerve passes through the cubital tunnel.

Cuboid – The lateral bone of the distal row of the tarsus, that articulates with the calcaneus, lateral cuneiform, navicular, and fourth and fifth metatarsals.

Cuneiform Bones –The distal row of the tarsals. These bones articulate with the cuboid, navicular, and metatarsals.

Debridement –A term of French origin for the removal of necrotic, infected or foreign material from a wound.

Degenerative Joint Disease –A form of arthritis that results in the destruction of the articular cartilage that lines the joints.

Demineralized Bone –Bone tissue without its mineral constituents, namely calcium.

Digit –A person's finger or toe.

Dislocation –The displacement of any part, more especially of a bone.

Distal –Situated away from the center of the body or from the point of origin; specifically applied to the extremity or distant part of a limb or organ.

Distal Interphalangeal Joint –The synovial joints between the middle and distal phalanges of the fingers and of the toes.

Distal Radio-Ulnar Joint –The pivot synovial joint between the head of the ulna and the ulnar notch on the radius; an articular disk passes across the distal part of the joint.

Dorsal –Denoting a position more toward the back surface of some object.

Ellipsoidal Joint –A modified ball-and-socket synovial joint in which the joint surfaces are elongated or ellipsoidal; it is a biaxial joint, i.e., two axes of motion at right angles to each other.

Endogenous —Arising from within or derived from the body.

Endoscope –An illuminated, stiff or flexible, tubular, miniature, video camera-scope, used in minimally invasive procedures by orthopaedic surgeons. The scope allows the surgeon to view inside the body through a small incision.

Endoscopy –Inspection of body organs or cavities using an endoscope.

Endosteum –The membrane that lines the inside of the marrow cavity of a bone.

Entrapment Neuropathy –A nerve lesion produced by constriction or mechanical distortion of the nerve within a fibrous or fibro-osseous tunnel or by a fibrous band.

Erythrocytes –A red blood cell.

Excision –Removal by cutting away material.

Exogenous –Originating outside of the body.

Extensor Tendon –Causes extension of a phalange.

External Fixation –Use of a rigid, external, mechanical device that holds pins that secure a fractured bone.

Ex-vivo –Outside of the living human body.

Fatigue Fracture –A fracture occurring in bone subjected to repeated or unusual stress, most often transverse in configuration.

Felty's Syndrome –A clinical condition characterised by rheumatoid arthritis, enlargement of the spleen and leukopenia.

Fibroblast –One of the most common cell types found in connective tissue. Responsible for the production of the precursors of collagen elastic fibers and reticular fibers.

Fibrosarcoma –A malignant tumor of connective tissue, usually necessitating surgical excision and replacement of the tissue.

Fibrosis –The thickening and scarring of connective tissue related to inflammation or injury.

Fibula –The lateral, outer, and smaller of the two bones of the lower leg, between the knee and the ankle.

Flare –A term used to describe a period of increased rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.

Fixed Joint –An immobile joint between two bones.

Glenoid –The shoulder socket.

Glenohumeral Joint –A ball-and-socket synovial joint between the head of the humerus and the glenoid cavity of the scapula.

Gout –Recurrent acute arthritis of peripheral joints caused by the accumulation of monosodium urate crystals.

Hallux –The great toe.

Hamate –The bone on the medial (ulnar) side of the distal row of the carpus; it articulates with the fourth and fifth metacarpal, triquetral, lunate, and capitate.

Hemi-Arthroplasty –An arthroplasty in which only one joint surface is replaced.

Heterotropic Bone Formation –The occurrence of bone growth in an abnormal location.

Hindfoot –The posterior part of the human foot that contains the calcaneus, talus, navicular, and cuboid bones.

Hinge Joint –A uniaxial joint in which a broad, transversely cylindrical convexity on one bone fits into a corresponding concavity on the other, allowing of motion in one plane only.

Histocompatibility –The ability of cells to survive without immunological interference, especially important in bone transplantation.

Humeroradial Joint –The portion of the elbow joint between the capitulum of the humerus and the head of the radius.

Humeroulnar –The portion of the elbow joint between the trochlea of the humerus and the trochlear notch of the ulna.

Humerus –The long bone of the upper arm that extends from the shoulder to the elbow.

Hyaluronate –Natural water-retaining and lubricating carbohydrate found in virtually all of the soft tissues of the body. A critical component of specialized physiologic fluids such as the vitreous humor of the eye and the synovial fluid of the joints.

Hyaluronic Acid –An acid, (mucopolysaccharide) that acts as a binding and protective agent for bone tissue. It is present in synovial fluid around joints.

Hydroxyapatite (HA) –A primary mineral compound (a form of calcium phosphate) found in bone salts and employed as a bone growth stimulator.

Hyperparathyroidism –Over production of hormones by the parathyroid glands. Laboratory studies show elevated calcium in the blood. Symptoms in more advanced cases include lethargy, confusion, nausea, bone pain and weakness.

ICU–Intensive Care Unit –The hospital ward for life threatening medical and surgical conditions.

Iliac Bones –The pelvic area hip bones.

Immuno-Therapy –The treatment of disease employing chemical or biological agents which modify the immune response.

Impingement Syndrome –A painful entrapment of muscle, tendon, bursa or other soft tissue.

Inorganic –relating to compounds not containing hydrocarbon groups.

Infectious Arthritis –Infection of the joints characterized by pain, fever, occasional chills, inflammation and swelling in one or more joints, and loss of function in the affected joints.

Internal Fixation –The use of internal metal plates, screws or rods to stabilize bone fragments.

Interosseous Membrane –The dense membrane that connects the interosseous margins of the radius and ulna, forming the radioulnar syndesmosis.

In-vitro –Describing biological phenomena that are made to occur outside the living body (traditionally a test tube or Petri dish).

In-vivo –Within the living human body.

Iris –The contractile membrane perforated by the pupil that forms the colored portion of the eye.

Irisitis –Inflammation of the iris.

Jugum –A ridge that connects two parts of a bone.

Laparoscope –A type of endoscope comprising an illuminated viewing tube that is inserted through the abdominal wall to enable the surgeon to view the organs in the abdomen.

Laparoscopy –An examination of the abdominal structures by means of a laparoscope. The laparoscope is passed through a small incision in the wall of the abdomen after injecting air into the abdominal cavity.

Laparotomy –A surgical incision into the abdominal cavity. This operation is done to examine the abdominal organs as an aid to diagnosis.

Laser – Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. The device that produces a focused beam of light at a defined wavelength. In surgery, lasers can be used to operate on small areas without damaging delicate surrounding tissue.

Lavage –The washing out of a body cavity or of a surgically opened area.

Leukocytes –Cells that help the body fight infections and other diseases. Also called white blood cells.

Ligament –A band of connective, inelastic, but flexible tissue that links two bones together at a joint and limits the joint's movement in certain directions.

Lipid –Any one of a group of fats or fat-like substances, characterized by their insolubility in water and solubility in fat solvents such as alcohol, ether and chloroform. The term is descriptive rather than a chemical name such as protein or carbohydrate.

Long Plantar Ligament –A strong ligament that extends from the calcaneus to the cuboid and the lateral metatarsals on the plantar aspect of the foot; a part of the passive support system for maintaining the longitudinal arch of the foot.

Lumbar –The lower back region of the spinal column. It consists of five vertebrae.

Lunate –One of the bones in the proximal row in the carpus between the scaphoid and triquetral; it articulates with the radius, scaphoid, triquetral, hamate, and capitate.

Malleolus –A projection at the distal end of each bone of the leg at the ankle joint. The malleolus of the tibia is the internal projection, that of the fibula is the external.

Meniscus –An interarticular synovial cartilage or membrane.

MesenchymalCells –Embryonic tissue cells which migrate to different parts of the body-forming skeletal tissue.

Metacarpal –The five bones in the hand between the wrists and fingers.

Metatarsal –The five cylindrical bones extending from the heel to the toes.

Midfoot –The portion of the foot located between the hindfoot and forefoot. This region includes the subtalar joint, talocalcaneonavicular joint, cuneonavicular, calcaneocuboid, cuboideonavicular, cuneocuboid, intercuneiform and tarsometatarsal joints.

Minimally Invasive Surgery –Surgery requiring very small incisions resulting in less pain, less collateral local trauma, less blood loss, less post-operative pain, quicker patient recovery periods, less time, and lower overall procedure cost. These procedures use micro-surgical instruments including endoscopes–allowing surgeons to perform, view, and record the procedure through a video monitor.

Musculoskeletal Medicine –The treatment of the skeletal and muscle systems of the human body.

Myoblast —A cell that fuses with other myoblasts and gives rise to myotubes that eventually develop into skeletal muscle fibers.

Navicular Bone – A tarsal on the medial side of the foot that articulates with the head of the talus, the three cuneiform bones, and the cuboid.

NSAID (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory) –A large group of anti-inflammatory agents that work on the COX enzymes to inhibit the production of prostaglandins. They exert anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic actions.

Neurosurgery –Surgical treatment of the brain and spinal cord, usually requiring cutting or repairing bone. Neurosurgeons most often perform surgical procedures in the cervical area, whereas orthopaedic surgeons commonly perform surgical procedures in the lower thoracic and lumbar regions of the spinal column.

Non-Union Fracture –A bone fracture that has not healed by traditional means after a nine-month time period.

Oblique Cord –A slender band extending from the lateral part of the coronoid process of the ulna to the radius at the elbow.

Olecranon –The large process at the proximal end of the ulna which forms the bony prominence of the elbow.

Open Reduction –Reduction by manipulation of bone after making an incision in skin and muscle over the site of the fracture.

Ophthalmic –Medical treatment pertaining to the eye.

OR-Operating Room –A specialized sanitary room in which surgical procedures are performed.

Organic –Relating or belonging to the class of chemical compounds having a carbon basis.

Orthobiologic –Biomaterials, often polymers, designed for orthopaedic surgery and repair procedures. These products are absorbed into the surrounding tissue after a period of several months to years.

Orthopaedics (also Orthopaedics) –Surgically oriented medical treatment concerned with the preservation and restoration functions of the skeletal system.

Orthopaedic Implants –Bone tissue or bone tissue substitutes including metal, plastic, ceramic, bioresorbable, and bioabsorbable materials employed in an effort to replace or to fixate bone tissue, or improve the articulating surfaces of bone joints.

Orthopaedic Soft Goods –Disposable devices applied externally for the purpose of stabilizing, immobilizing, or restricting movement of certain body parts. Examples include: foam neck braces, arm slings, neoprene knee braces, and cast materials.

Orthrosis –A non-surgical, orthopaedic "soft-good" designed to brace or immobilize an area as it heals.

Osseous Tissue –A connective tissue; a matrix of collagen fibers and ground substance into which are deposited calcium salts (phosphate, carbonate, and some fluoride) in the form of an apatite.

Ossification –The formation of bone in three stages by action of cells known as osteoblasts.

Ostectomy –Surgical excision (removal) of bone.

Osteoactivity –Bone cell activity.

Osteoarthritis –A disease of joint cartilage associated with secondary changes in the underlying bone, which may ultimately cause pain and impair the function of the affected joint.

Osteoarthropathy –Any disorder of bone and cartilage adjoining a joint.

Osteoathrotomy –Surgical excision of the bone adjoining a joint.

Osteoblast –A bone-forming cell; it arises from a fibroblast cell and is responsible for the formation of bone matrix, which is found on the surface area of developing bone.

Osteochondral –Relating to bone and cartilage.

Osteoconductive –The act of providing a scaffold or matrix for bone tissue growth. A material is osteoconductive if it provides a surface or structure that allows for bone tissue to grow into it. It does not induce bone growth.

Osteocyte –A bone cell; an osteoblast that has ceased activity and has become embedded in the bone matrix.

Osteodensitometer (Bone Densitometer) –A device for determining the density of bone, particularly used for risk detection of osteoporosis.

Osteodystrophy –Bone disease resulting from a metabolic disorder.

Osteogenic Compound –A substance causing the regeneration or regrowth of bone.

Osteoid –Usually refers to the soft organic part of intercellular bone matrix produced by osteogenic and osteoblast cells.

Osteoinductive –The endogenous or exogenous stimulation of bone growth activity. A material is osteoinductive when it induces bone to grow.

Osteointegration –Incorporation of an implant with the surrounding bone tissue.

Osteology –The study of the structure of bones.

Osteolysis –Deterioration of bone resulting from the loss of the blood supply (ischemia) to the bone.

Osteonectin –A glycoprotein present in the noncollagenous portion of the matrix of bone.

Osteon –A central canal containing blood capillaries and the concentric osseous lamellae: the basic structural unit of cortical (compact) bone.

Osteopathy –A system of healing based upon a theoretical assumption that many diseases are directly associated with musculoskeletal disorders.

Osteoporosis –A disease causing abnormally brittle bones, in which resorption outpaces formation.

Osteosclerosis –An abnormal increase in thickness and density of bone.

Osteotomy –The surgical cutting of a bone.

Paget's Disease –A disease of bone that initially results in the excessive resorption of bone (by osteoclasts) followed by the replacement of normal bone marrow with vascular and fibrous tissue.

Pathology –The study of disease in all its aspects, (its nature, causes, development, and consequences.)

Patient Handling Equipment –Equipment used to facilitate the movement of immobilized or semi-immobilized patients in hospital or surgical settings. This includes basic stretcher beds, radiology stretchers, multi-use stretchers, specialty beds for burn patients, maternity-birthing beds, critical care beds, and related items like mattresses and systems to rotate immobilized patients.

PEMF (Pulse ElectroMagnetic Field) –A technology which uses electrical stimulation to cause the growth of bone tissue.

Periarticular –Surrounding a joint.

Pericarditis –Inflammation of the pericardium.

Pericardium –A double membranous sac which envelops and protects the heart.

Periosteum –A thick fibrous membrane covering the surface of bones except at points of articulation. The outer layer of the periosteum is extremely dense and contains a large number of blood vessels. The inner layer is more cellular in appearance and contains osteoblasts and fewer blood vessels. The periosteum provides attachment for tendons and ligaments.

Periostitis –Inflammation of the membrane surrounding a bone.

Peroneus Brevis Tendon –Insertion of the peroneus brevis muscle by the 5th metatarsal.

Peroneus Longus Tendon –Insertion of the peroneus longus muscle at the 1st metatarsal.

Phalanges –The bones of the fingers and toes (the singular is phalanx).

Phosphorus (P) –A nonmetallic element not found in a free state but in combination with alkalies. The adult body contains from 600g to 900g of phosphorus with 70% to 80% in bone and teeth, principally combined with calcium.

Physical Therapy –The action of physically exercising certain body parts, such as the legs, arms or neck, in an effort to strengthen, regain function, re-learn movement, or rehabilitate muscle and skeletal systems.

Physiology –The science of the functioning of living organisms and their component systems and parts.

Pisometacarpal Ligament –A strong fibrous band extending from the pisiform bone to the base of the fifth metacarpal.

Pivot Joint –A synovial joint in which a section at the head of one bone fits into a corresponding cavity in another.

Plantar Calcaneonavicular Ligament– Ligament connecting the plantar surface of the navicular with the three cuneiform bones.

Plantar Cuneonavicular Ligament– Ligament connecting the plantar surface of the navicular with the three cuneiform bones.

Pleura –The membranes covering the lungs.

Pleuritis (Pleurisy) –Inflammation of the pleura.

Podiatry –The study and treatment of foot diseases, injuries and defects; also called chiropody.

Polyethylene –A low friction plastic material used in reconstruction surgery as an articulating surface.

PorousCoating –Tiny metal beads applied to an implant to allow bone ingrowth or enhanced cement fixation. The process of sintering beads or powder to an implant by passing the substance through ionized gas (plasma) as it is ejected onto the surface.

Posterior –Located behind a structure. Relating to the back or dorsal side of the human body.

Posterior Talofibular Ligament – The nearly horizontal fibrous band that extends from the posterior border of the talus to the malleolus.

Powered Surgical Instruments –Any metal instrument which is battery or electrically operated and is specifically used in surgical procedures to drill, bore, burr, ream, rasp, smooth, buff, cut, and evacuate body fluids or tissues via a rotating, drilling, vibrating, sawing or sucking action.

Pre-Clinical Studies –Occurring prior to clinical studies, usually in-vitro or on animal subjects, and for the purpose of determining safety and toxicology.

PressFit –Implanting a prosthesis without using bone cement where the bone is modeled so that the component fits tightly.

Pronate –The act of turning a body part so that it is face down.

Prosthesis –Artificial substitute for missing body parts, such as knee joints, breast implants, false teeth, arms or legs.

Prostaglandins –These have a variety of important roles in regulating cellular activities, especially in the inflammatory response.

Protein –Any of a group of complex nitrogenous substances of high molecular weight that contain amino acids as their fundamental structural units.

Proteolipid –A lipid-protein complex that is insoluble in water. It is found principally in the brain.

Proximal –Nearest the center; opposite of distal.

Proximal Interphalangeal Joint –The synovial joint's between the proximal and middle phalanges of the fingers and of the toes.

Proximal Radio-Ulnar Joint –The pivot synovial joint between the head of the radius and the ring formed by the radial notch of the ulna and the annular ligament.

Pseudogout –Also called Calcium Pyrophosphate Deposition Disease (CPPD), Pseudogout is a chronic, recurrent, arthritic condition that results from the accumulation of calcium pyrophosphate (CPP) crystals in articular cartilage.

Psoriasis –A skin disorder that manifests as red, dry, scaly lesions.

Psoriatic Arthritis –Similar in presentation to rheumatoid arthritis; psoriatic arthritis is associated with psoriasis.

Radial Collateral Ligament –The ligament that connects the humerus with the annular ligament of the radius.

Radio-Carpal Joint –The synovial joint between the distal end of the radius and its articular disk and the proximal row of carpal bones with the exception of the pisiform bone.

Radioulnar Ligament –Ligament binding the ulna and radius.

Radius –One of two bones which constitute the forearm. The largest portion of the radius is at the wrist joint where it articulates with the carpal bones of the hand. Above, the radius articulates with the humerus at the elbow joint.

Rasping –The act of scraping a bone.

ReconstructiveDevices –Implantable prostheses, usually metal, sometimes silicone gel, used for partial or total replacement of damaged or deteriorated joints, or bones and devices such as rods, pins, screws, plates, and clamps used to fixate bones internally or externally.

Red Blood Cell –See erythrocyte.

Resorption –The dissolution of substitute material and the simultaneous assimilation of bone tissue by physiological and pathological means.

Revascularization –The re-establishment of blood supply to a part of the body by blood vessel grafting or the development of collateral channels.

Rheumatoid Arthritis –Chronic inflammatory disease in which there is destruction of joints. Considered by some to be an autoimmune disorder in which immune complexes are formed in joints and excite an inflammatory response.

RICE –Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation–this is the best treatment for minor joint injuries.

Rotator-CuffInjury –A common sports-related injury in which soft tissue in the shoulder is damaged.

Scapula –A large, flat, triangular bone that forms the posterior portion of the shoulder.

Scaphoid –One of the carpal bones that articulates with the radius.

Sesamoids –Small bones or cartilages formed in tendons.

Sepsis –The destruction of tissue by disease-causing bacteria or their toxins.

Sicca Syndrome –An immunologic disorder characterized by progressive destruction of the exocrine glands. Symptoms include dry eyes, dry mouth, persistent cough, and lack of saliva. Associated with rheumatoid arthritis.

Skeleton –The rigid framework of connected bones that gives form to the body, protects and supports its soft organs and tissues, and provides attachments for muscles and a system of levels essential for locomotion. There are 206 named bones in the body.

Sprain –A tearing injury to ligaments.

Sports Injury –Any musculoskeletal soft-tissue injury that arises during physical activity.

Sternoclavicular –Relating to the sternum and the clavicle.

Steroid –See corticosteroid.

Strain –A tearing injury to muscle. Usually causes some degree of bleeding within the muscle tissue.

Stress Fracture –A hairline or microscopic break in the bone that is not demonstrable with conventional X-rays.

Subluxation –The complete dislocation of a joint.

Subtalar Joint –Formed by the articulation of the talus with the calcaneus.

Surgical Adhesions –Following surgical procedures, scar tissue may form as part of the body's natural healing process as internal organs dry out from exposure to air or are otherwise traumatized as result of surgery. This scar tissue can cause damaged tissues and organs to adhere to each other. A coating of a Hyaluronate-based material to the damaged or exposed tissues has demonstrated a significant reduction in the incidence of adhesions in animals and may have efficacy in humans as well.

Surgical Suture –The closure of a wound or incision with material such as silk, catgut, or other bioengineered, bioabsorbable material to facilitate the healing process.

Supinate –The act of turning a body part so that it is face up.

Synostosis –The joining by ossification of two adjacent bones. It occurs, for example, at the sutures between the bones of the skull.

Synovectomy –The surgical removal of the synovium of a joint. This is performed in order to reduce pain in the joint and prevent further destruction.

Synovial Fluid –A thick, colorless lubricating fluid surrounding joints.

Synovial Membrane (Synovium) –The membrane, composed of mesothelium and connective tissue that forms the sac that encloses a freely movable joint. It secretes the lubricating synovial fluid.

Synovioma –A benign or malignant tumor of the synovial membrane.

Synovitis –The inflammation of the membrane (synovium) that lines a joint capsule, resulting in pain and swelling (arthritis). It is caused by injury, infection, or rheumatic disease. This occurs most commonly after excessive overuse but is sometimes due to bacterial infection or a generalized rheumatic disease. Rest is the treatment.

Talus –The human astragalus that bears the weight of the body and together with the tibia and fibula forms the ankle joint.

Tarsals –The seven bones which form the tarsus–namely, calcaneus, talus, cuboid, navicular, and first, second and third cuneiforms. The tarsus is a skeletal part of the foot.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome –Compression of the posterior tibial nerve caused by thickening of the laciniate ligament or by gouty or arthritic deposits around the ankle joint leading to symptoms of pain or paresthesia over the sole of the foot.

Tarsometatarsal Joints –The three synovial joints between the tarsal and metatarsal bones.

Tarsometatarsal Ligaments – The ligaments that unite tarsal and metatarsal bones.

Tendonitis –Inflammation of a tendon caused by bacteria or bone disease.

Tendon –A fibrous band of collagen that is inelastic, but flexible and concentrates the pull of a muscle on a small area of bone.

Tenosynovitis –Inflammation of a tendon sheath.

Third Party Payer –The source of reimbursement or payment of charges for medical services when the patient does not make direct payment (i.e., insurance companies, government agencies, employers). The patient and the doctor represent the two other parties in third party payment arrangements.

Tibia –The larger front and inner part of the two leg bones between the knee and the ankle commonly called shin bone.

Tibialis Anterior Tendon –Insertion of the tibialis anterior muscle by the 1st metatarsal.

Tibialis Posterior Tendon –Insertion of the tibialis posterior muscle at the base of the foot.

Tibiofibular Ligament –The ligament that binds the anterior aspect of the tibiofibular syndesmosis.

Tibiofibular Syndesmosis –The fibrous union of the tibia and fibula.

Titanium –A bio-compatible metallic element used to make surgical implants.

Total Arthroplasty –A complete replacement of all the articular surfaces in an entire joint.

Toxicology –The study of the toxic or harmful effects of substances on the body.

Traction –A pulling force exerted on a skeletal structure (as in a fracture) by means of a special device or apparatus.

Transplant –The implantation of bone tissue, as in grafting, from one part of the body to another, or from one person to another.

Trapezium –A bone of the carpus at the base of the first metacarpal, or thumb.

Trapezoid –A bone of the carpus at the base of the second metacarpal, or index finger.

Trapezoid Ligament –The lateral part of the coracoclavicular ligament that attaches to the trapezoid line of the clavicle.

Trauma –An accidental physical injury to bone tissue, not caused by disease, such as a bone fracture.

Triquetrum –One of the bones of the carpus; the cuneiform.

Tympanic Membrane –The ear drum.

Ulna –One of the bones that comprises the forearm. The largest aspect articulates with the humerus at the elbow joint and the smallest portion of the ulna articulates with the carpal bones in the wrist.

Ulnar Collateral Ligament –The triangular ligament extending from the humerus to the coronoid process and olecranon of the ulna.

Uric Acid –Byproduct of purine metabolism–contributes to crystal formation in patients with Gout.

Vasculitis –Inflammation of a blood vessel.

Ventral –Pertaining to the front of a body. See anterior.

Virus –An intracellular, infectious parasite, capable of living and reproducing only in living cells; virus particles usually range in size from 10 to 300 nanometers, are visible under the electron microscope, and are spherical, polyhedral, or rod-shaped in form. Each virus is composed of a protein shell which encloses a single nucleic acid, either ribonucleic acid (RNA) or deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). A virus lives by entering a living host cell and using its own nucleic acid to pirate the reproductive system of the host, thereby multiplying itself.

Viscoelastic –A property of being a plastic and a liquid.

Volar Radiocarpal Ligament –Ligament at the wrist that creates the carpal tunnel.

Volar Ulnocarpal Ligament – Ligament binging the ulna to the proximal row of carpals.

White Blood Cell –See leukocyte.

Wrist –The joint between the hand and the arm.

Xenogeneic Bone –Bone tissue used for grafting purposes and derived from a donor of a different species.

Xenograft –A graft derived from one species for another species, (e.g., baboon bone tissue used in a human bone graft procedure).