Orthopedic Glossary of Terms |
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| A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z | ||
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Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) |
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Diagnostic technique using magnetism to produce high-quality cross-sectional images of organs or structures within the body without x-rays or other radiation. |
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Malaise |
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Lethargic feeling of general discomfort; out-of-sorts feeling. |
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Mallet finger |
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Rupture of the extensor tendon from the distal phalanx due to forceful flexion of the phalanx. |
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Marfan's syndrome |
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Inherited connective tissue disorder affecting many organs, but commonly resulting in the dilation and weakening of the thoracic aorta. |
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McBurney's point |
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A site one-third the distance between the anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS) and umbilicus that with deep palpation produces rebound tenderness indicating appendicitis. |
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Mechanosensitive |
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Sensitive to mechanical stimulation. |
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Medial collateral ligament (MCL) |
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The ligament that stabilizes the inside part of the knee. |
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Medial epicondylitis (golfer's elbow) |
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Pain caused by damage to the tendons that bend the wrist toward the palm. |
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Meniscus |
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Fibrocartilagenous disc found within a joint that serve to reduce joint stress. |
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Metatarsalgia |
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A condition involving general discomfort around the metatarsal heads. |
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Microtrauma |
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Injury to a small number of cells due to accumulative effects of repetitive forces. |
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Modalities |
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| Therapeutic agents that promote optimal healing while reducing pain and disability. | ||
Monteggia's fracture |
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Ulnar fracture with an associated dislocation of the radial head. |
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Morton's neuroma |
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A pinched nerve that usually causes pain between the third and fourth toes. |
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Motion segment |
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Two adjacent vertebrae and the intervening soft tissues; the functional unit of the spine. |
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Muscle spindle |
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Encapsulated receptor found in muscle tissue sensitive to stretch. |
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Muscular endurance |
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The ability of muscles to exert tension over an extended period. |
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Muscular power |
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The ability of muscles to produce force at a given time. |
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Musculoskeletal system |
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The complex system involving the body's muscles and skeleton, including the joints, ligaments, tendons, and nerves. |
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Muscular strength |
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The ability of muscles to produce force during a single maximal contraction. |
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Myositis |
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Inflammation of connective tissue within a muscle. |
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Myositis ossificans |
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Accumulation of mineral deposits within muscle tissue. |
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Myotome |
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A group of muscles primarily innervated by a single nerve root. |
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