A

 Absence of, without Example: Atrophy – Wasting away or reduction in muscle size due to lack of use, often resulting from prolonged immobility, nerve damage, or muscle disease.

Inter

Between Example: Intervertebral disc – A fibrocartilaginous structure located between the vertebrae of the spine, providing cushioning and flexibility.

Intra

Within, in Example: Intramuscular injection – An injection administered directly into a muscle, commonly used for vaccines or medication delivery.

Sym

 Together, joined Example: Symphysis pubis – A cartilaginous joint where the two pubic bones meet in the pelvis, allowing slight movement for childbirth and pelvic flexibility.

Dys

 Painful, difficult, abnormal, labored Example: Dystonia – A condition characterized by abnormal muscle tone or involuntary muscle contractions, which can lead to repetitive movements, abnormal postures, and impaired function.

Asthenia

Weakness Example: Myasthenia – Muscle weakness, commonly associated with conditions like myasthenia gravis, an autoimmune disorder affecting neuromuscular function.

Clasia

 Break Example: Osteoclasia – Surgical breaking of bone tissue to correct deformities or aid in the healing process in severe cases

Desis

Surgical fixation, fusion Example: Arthrodesis – Surgical fusion of a joint to provide stability and reduce pain, often used for severe arthritis.

Clast

Break Example: Osteoclast – A specialized bone cell that breaks down bone tissue during bone remodeling and repair.

Malacia

Softening Example: Chondromalacia – Softening of cartilage, particularly in the knee, leading to pain and difficulty with movement.

Ankyl/o

Stiff, bent Example: Ankylosis - Abnormal stiffening and immobility of a joint due to fusion of the bones, often caused by injury or disease.

Chondr/o

Cartilage Example: Chondromalacia - Softening of cartilage, commonly affecting the knee and leading to pain and swelling during movement.

Fasci/o

Fascia Example: Fasciotomy - A surgical incision into fascia to relieve tension or pressure, often used to treat compartment syndrome.

Kinesi/o

Movement, motion Example: Kinesiology - The study of movement and how the body’s muscles, bones, and joints work together to produce motion.

Lamin/o

Lamina (thin, flat plate or layer) Example: Laminectomy - Surgical removal of a portion of the vertebral lamina to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves.

BDT = Bone Density Testing

• A diagnostic test used to measure bone mineral density (BMD) and determine the strength of bones. It is commonly used to diagnose conditions like osteoporosis and assess fracture risk. Techniques include dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA).

CTS = Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

• A condition caused by compression of the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. Symptoms include pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and fingers, often associated with repetitive motions like typing or assembly work.

EMG = Electromyography

• A diagnostic procedure that measures the electrical activity of muscles in response to nerve stimulation. EMG is used to evaluate muscle weakness, nerve dysfunction, or neuromuscular disorders.

Baker's Cyst

• Named After: William Morrant Baker, a British surgeon.

A fluid-filled sac located behind the knee, often resulting from joint inflammation or conditions like arthritis. A Baker’s cyst is common in patients with osteoarthritis or knee injuries. It can cause swelling, discomfort, and limited knee movement.

Achilles Tendon

• Named After: Achilles, a hero of Greek mythology.

The tendon that connects the calf muscles (gastrocnemius and soleus) to the heel bone (calcaneus). It plays a critical role in walking, running, and jumping. Frequently injured in sports, leading to conditions such as Achilles tendinitis or ruptures.