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.

ab-

 Away from

Example: Abduction – Movement of a limb away from the midline of the body, such as raising the arm or leg to the side, common in physical therapy and exercise routines.

ad-

 Toward

Example: Adduction – Movement of a limb toward the midline of the body, such as bringing the arm or leg back to its resting position after abduction.

brady-

Slow 

Example: Bradykinesia – Slowness of movement, often a symptom of neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease, affecting motor function and coordination.

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.

hyper-

Above, excessive 

Example: Hypertonia – Excessive muscle tone, resulting in stiffness or rigidity, commonly seen in conditions like cerebral palsy or stroke.

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.

poly-

 Many, much 

Example: Polydactyly – A congenital condition characterized by having more than the normal number of fingers or toes, which may require surgical correction for functional or cosmetic reasons.

sub-

Many, much

Example: Polydactyly – A congenital condition characterized by having more than the normal number of fingers or toes, which may require surgical correction for functional or cosmetic reasons.

sub-

Below, under

• Example: Subscapularis muscle – A muscle located below the scapula (shoulder blade), playing a key role in shoulder rotation and stabilization.

sup-

Below, under

Example: Subscapularis muscle – A muscle located below the scapula (shoulder blade), playing a key role in shoulder rotation and stabilization.

supra-

Above

Example: Suprapatellar – Refers to the area above the patella (kneecap), commonly associated with the suprapatellar bursa, which reduces friction and allows smooth movement of the quadriceps tendon over the femur.

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.

syn-

Together, joined

Example: Synarthrosis – A type of immovable joint where bones are joined together, such as in the skull, providing stability and protection to vital organs.

Musculoskeletal System Suffixes

-al

Pertaining to 

Example: Femoral – Pertaining to the femur, the largest bone in the body, located in the thigh.

-algia

Pain 

Example: Myalgia – Pain in a muscle, often caused by overuse, injury, or systemic conditions like fibromyalgia.

-ar

Pertaining to 

Example: Patellar – Pertaining to the kneecap (patella), a small bone that protects the knee joint and assists in movement

-asthenia

Weakness

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

-centesis

 Surgical puncture to aspirate fluid 

Example: Arthrocentesis – Surgical puncture of a joint to remove fluid for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes, often used to relieve swelling or analyze joint conditions.

-clasia

Break

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

-clast

Break 

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

   

-desis

Surgical fixation, fusion

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

-ectomy

Excision, surgical removal, cutting out

Example: Tenectomy – Surgical removal of part of a tendon, often performed to treat chronic tendon inflammation or injury.

-gram

 The record, radiographic image 

• Example: Myogram – A record of muscle contraction activity, often used to diagnose neuromuscular disorders.

-graphy

Process of recording, radiographic imaging

Example: Arthrography – Imaging of a joint using contrast dye to assess joint structures such as cartilage, ligaments, and bones.

-ic

Pertaining to

Example: Thoracic – Pertaining to the thorax (chest), which houses the lungs, heart, and other vital structures.

-itis

Inflammation

• Example: Myositis – Inflammation of muscle tissue, which can be caused by infections, autoimmune disorders, or trauma.

-lysis

Loosening, separating, dissolution

Example: Osteolysis – Destruction or dissolution of bone tissue, often seen in conditions like bone metastasis or infection.

-malacia

Softening 

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

   

-oid

Resembling

• Example: Myeloid – Resembling bone marrow, often used to describe cells or tissues related to hematopoiesis.

-oma

Tumor 

Example: Rhabdomyoma – A benign tumor of muscle tissue, typically found in the heart or skeletal muscles.

-osis

Abnormal condition

• Example: Scoliosis – Abnormal curvature of the spine, which can cause back pain, reduced mobility, and postural issues.

-penia

Abnormal reduction

Example: Sarcopenia – Loss of muscle mass and strength, often associated with aging, inactivity, or poor nutrition.

-physis

Growth 

• Example: Epiphysis – The growth end of a long bone, critical during childhood and adolescence for bone elongation.

-plasty

Surgical repair

Example: Myoplasty – Surgical repair or reconstruction of damaged or weakened muscle tissue.

-rrhaphy

 Suturing, repairing

Example: Tenorrhaphy – Suturing of a torn or severed tendon to restore function and stability.

-sarcoma

Malignant tumor

Example: Osteosarcoma – A malignant bone tumor commonly affecting children and young adults, requiring surgical and medical treatment.

-scopy

Process of viewing, visual examination 

Example: Arthroscopy – Visual examination of a joint using a specialized instrument to diagnose and treat joint conditions.

-tomy

 Incision, cut into

Example: Myotomy – Surgical incision into a muscle, often performed to relieve tightness or treat muscle disorders

-trophy

Nourishment, development 

• Example: Hypertrophy – Excessive development of tissue or an organ, commonly referring to increased muscle size due to exercise or compensatory growth.

   

Musculoskeletal System Word Roots

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.

arthr/o

Joint 

Example: Arthritis – Inflammation of a joint, often resulting in pain, swelling, and stiffness, which can be caused by aging, autoimmune disorders, or injury.

carp/o

Carpals, wrist 

Example: Carpectomy - Surgical removal of a carpal bone, typically performed to relieve pain or improve wrist function.

chondr/o

Cartilage 

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

clavic/o, clavicul/o

Clavicle, collarbone

• Example: Clavicectomy - Excision of the clavicle, usually performed to treat severe fractures or chronic pain.

cost/o

ribs

• Example: Costochondritis – Inflammation of the cartilage that connects a rib to the sternum, causing localized chest pain that can mimic heart-related conditions.

crani/o

 Cranium

• Example: Craniotomy - Surgical incision into the cranium to access the brain for procedures such as tumor removal or trauma management.

electr/o

Electricity; electrical activity

Example: Electromyography - A diagnostic test that records the electrical activity of muscles to detect neuromuscular disorders.

fasci/o

Fascia 

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

fibr/o

Fibrous connective tissue

• Example: Fibromyalgia - A condition characterized by widespread pain in fibrous tissues and muscles, often accompanied by fatigue and sleep disturbances.

kinesi/o

 Movement, motion

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

kyph/o

increased convexity of the spineI

Example: Kyphosis - Excessive outward curvature of the spine, leading to a hunched posture, commonly seen in older adults.

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.

leiomy/o

Smooth (visceral) muscle that lines the walls of internal organs

Example: Leiomyoma - A benign tumor of smooth muscle, often found in the uterus where it is commonly referred to as a fibroid.

lord/o

Bent forward, increased concavity of the spine

• Example: Lordosis - Excessive inward curvature of the spine, commonly affecting the lower back and sometimes leading to pain.

lumb/o

Loin, lumbar region of the spine

Example: Lumbodynia - Pain in the lumbar region, often caused by muscle strain, injury, or degenerative conditions.

mandibul/o

 Mandible, lower jaw bone 

Example: Mandibular - Pertaining to the mandible, the largest and strongest bone of the face that holds the lower teeth.

maxill/o

Maxilla, upper jaw bone

Example: Maxillofacial - Pertaining to the maxilla and face, often referring to surgeries or treatments involving the upper jaw and facial structures.

menisc/o

 Meniscus, crescent 

• Example: Meniscectomy - Surgical removal of a meniscus, typically done to repair damage from injury or degeneration in the knee joint.

   

Musculoskeletal System Word Roots Continued

my/o

 Muscle

Example: Myopathy – Any disease of the muscle, often resulting in weakness, pain, or dysfunction, such as in muscular dystrophy or inflammatory myopathies.

myel/o

Marrow (bone), spinal cord

Example: Myelitis – Inflammation of the spinal cord or bone marrow, which can cause neurological symptoms, weakness, or immune system dysfunction.

oste/o

Bone

Example: Osteoporosis – A condition characterized by a decrease in bone density, leading to brittle bones and an increased risk of fractures, especially in the hips, spine, and wrists.

patell/o

Patella, kneecap 

• Example: Patellar – Pertaining to the kneecap, a small bone that protects the knee joint and facilitates leg extension.

pelv/i

 Pelvis, pelvic bone

Example: Pelvimetry – Measurement of the dimensions of the pelvis, often used in obstetrics to assess the feasibility of vaginal childbirth.

pelv/o

Pelvis, pelvic bone

Example: Pelvectomy – Surgical removal of part or all of the pelvis, typically performed to treat advanced cancers or severe trauma.

petr/o

Stone 

• Example: Petrous – Resembling stone or pertaining to the petrous part of the temporal bone, which houses the inner ear structures.

phalang/o

Bones of the fingers and toes

•  Example: Phalangeal – Pertaining to the bones of the fingers or toes, essential for dexterity and movement.

plant/o

Sole of the foot

Example: Plantar fasciitis – Inflammation of the fascia on the sole of the foot, causing heel pain and discomfort, often due to overuse or improper footwear.

pub/o

Pubis (hipbone)

• Example: Pubofemoral – Pertaining to the pubis and femur, such as the pubofemoral ligament, which supports the hip joint.

rachi/o

Vertebral spine, vertebral column 

• Example: Rachialgia – Pain in the vertebral column, often caused by conditions like arthritis, herniated discs, or muscular strain.

rhabd/o

Rod-shaped, striated

Example: Rhabdomyolysis – A condition involving the breakdown of striated muscle fibers, leading to the release of muscle contents into the bloodstream, potentially causing kidney damage.

sarc/o

Flesh, connective tissue

Example: Sarcoma – A malignant tumor of connective tissue such as bone, muscle, or fat, often requiring surgical and medical treatment.

scoli/o

Crooked, curved

• Example: Scoliosis – Abnormal lateral curvature of the spine, which can cause back pain, posture issues, and in severe cases, breathing difficulties.

spondyl/o

Vertebra, spine, vertebral column 

Example: Spondylitis – Inflammation of the vertebrae, often seen in conditions like ankylosing spondylitis, causing stiffness and pain in the spine.

tars/o

Tarsals, ankle bones 

Example: Tarsalgia – Pain in the ankle bones, often caused by arthritis, injury, or overuse.

ten/o, tendin/o, tend/o

Tendon

Example: Tenosynovitis – Inflammation of a tendon and its surrounding synovial sheath, often caused by repetitive movement or injury.

vertebr/o

Vertebra, spine, vertebral column

• Example: Vertebral – Pertaining to a vertebra, one of the interlocking bones that make up the spinal column, providing support and protection for the spinal cord.

   

Musculoskeletal System Abbreviations, Acronyms, and Eponyms

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.

MD

= Muscular Dystrophy

• A group of genetic disorders that cause progressive muscle weakness and degeneration. Types of muscular dystrophy include Duchenne muscular dystrophy (most common) and Becker muscular dystrophy, among others.

MG 

= Myasthenia Gravis

• A chronic autoimmune disorder that disrupts communication between nerves and muscles, leading to muscle weakness. Symptoms often include drooping eyelids (ptosis), difficulty swallowing, and fatigue with activity.

OA

= Osteoarthritis

• A degenerative joint disease caused by the breakdown of cartilage within joints. Common symptoms include joint pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. OA primarily affects weight-bearing joints such as the knees, hips, and spine.

OP 

= Osteoporosis

• A condition characterized by a decrease in bone density, making bones weak, brittle, and more prone to fractures. It often affects older adults, especially postmenopausal women, due to reduced levels of estrogen.

OT

= Occupational Therapy

• A therapeutic approach focused on enabling individuals to perform meaningful daily activities and tasks despite injury, illness, or disability. OT helps patients regain independence in activities of daily living and adapt to physical or cognitive limitations.

PKR

= Partial Knee Replacement

A surgical procedure in which only the damaged part of the knee joint is replaced with a prosthesis. PKR is an alternative to total knee replacement for patients with localized arthritis in one compartment of the knee.

PMR

= Polymyalgia Rheumatica

• An inflammatory disorder that causes muscle pain and stiffness, particularly in the shoulders, neck, and hips. PMR is more common in older adults and is often associated with systemic inflammation, such as in giant cell arteritis.

RA

= Rheumatoid Arthritis

• A chronic autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the joints, leading to pain, swelling, stiffness, and deformities. Unlike osteoarthritis, RA often affects smaller joints and can involve systemic symptoms like fatigue and fever.

ROM

= Range of Motion

• The extent of movement a joint or muscle can achieve in various directions. It is often assessed in physical therapy, injury evaluation, or post-surgery rehabilitation to determine joint health or progress of recovery

RSD

= Repetitive Stress Disorder

• Definition: A condition caused by repetitive motion or overuse of muscles, tendons, or nerves, leading to pain, inflammation, or injury. Common examples include tennis elbow and carpal tunnel syndrome.

THR

= Total Hip Replacement

• Definition: A surgical procedure in which the damaged hip joint is replaced with an artificial prosthesis. THR is often performed for severe arthritis or hip fractures, restoring function and relieving pain.

TKR

= Total Knee Replacement

• Definition: A surgical procedure in which the entire knee joint is replaced with a prosthesis. TKR is used to treat severe arthritis or joint damage that significantly impacts mobility and quality of life.

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.

Paget's Disease of Bone

• Named After: Sir James Paget, a British surgeon.

A chronic bone disorder causing abnormal bone remodeling, leading to weakened, enlarged, and deformed bones. It commonly affects the pelvis, skull, spine, and legs. Early diagnosis is essential to prevent fractures and manage symptoms.

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.

Erb’s Palsy

• Named After: Wilhelm Heinrich Erb, a German neurologist.

A condition caused by injury to the brachial plexus, often during birth or trauma. It leads to weakness or paralysis in the shoulder and elbow muscles. Early diagnosis and intervention through physical therapy are essential for improving outcomes in affected individuals.