Common Word Roots for Skeletal System (Part 2)

disk/o is a combining form that refers to "intervertebral disk". The vertebral column is composed of 26 bones that serve as the trunk's axial support. The vertebral column is a protective shell around the spinal cord that extends into its central cavity. In between each vertebra lies an intervertebral disk. These disks are composed of a jelly-like substance called the nucleus pulposus, which acts as a cushioning material for the spinal column.

femor/o is a combining form that refers to "femur (upper leg bone)". The femur is the bone that makes up the thigh. The femur is the longest and strongest bone in the human body. It plays a very significant role in the ability to move and stand as well as in the ability to balance.

fibul/o is a combining form that refers to "fibula (outer lower leg bone)". The fibula is a lengthy bone in the lower leg that is located on the outer side of the tibia. The fibula is a much shorter and slimmer bone than the tibia. In contrast to the tibia, the fibula does not bear weight. Its primary function is to connect with the tibia and provide support for the ankle joint.

humer/o is a combining form that refers to "humerus (upper arm bone)". The humerus is the upper arm bone that’s positioned in the area between the elbow and shoulder. The main use of the humerus is to ensure stability for the shoulder and to allow your arm to perform a wide range of movements.

ili/o is a combining form that refers to "ilium". The ilium comprises the upper part of the hip bone and pelvis. This is the largest and topmost bone of the hip and is crucial to the pelvic girdle. The ilium supports the body's weight and forms the structure that makes sure the spine is stable when the body is standing. Therefore, it is crucial as part of the mechanism that facilitates mobility.

ischi/o is a combining form that refers to "ischium". The ischium consists of two bones of the pelvis that make up the lower and rear portion of the hip bone. The upper part of the ischium makes up most of the curved region of the pelvis that makes up the hip. As a structural part of the hip joint, this bone is essential to leg mobility, balancing, standing up, and lifting.

kinesi/o is a combining form that refers to "movement (motion)". Motion refers to the movement of the body's organs, joints, limbs, and specific parts. Generally, this motion is described in relation to its direction in relation to the anatomical position of the relevant body parts.

kyph/o is a combining form that refers to "humpback". Kyphosis, also called roundback, humpback or hunchback, describes an abnormality where the spine in the upper back exhibits too much curve. Having improper posture in childhood, like slouching, slumping back in chairs, and carrying heavy backpacks, puts pressure on the muscles and ligaments in the spine to strain. This causes the vertebrae in the thorax to pull out of place, which results in kyphosis.

lord/o is a combining form that refers to "curve; swayback". Known also as "swayback," lordosis occurs when the spine bends inward too much.

lumb/o is a combining form that refers to "loin (lumbar region of the spine)". The term "loin" or "loins" pertains to the side of the body from just below the rib cage to just on top of the pelvis. It is often used to refer to the general area below the ribs.