Musculoskeletal Anatomy & Pathophysiology Flashcards

Which bony landmark serves as the attachment site for the Achilles tendon?

Answer: Calcaneal tuberosity

The Achilles tendon (calcaneal tendon) inserts onto the posterior aspect of the calcaneal tuberosity.

Spinal stenosis most commonly causes which symptom pattern?

Answer: Neurogenic claudication relieved by lumbar flexion

Neurogenic claudication from lumbar stenosis is classically relieved by forward flexion (e.g., leaning on a shopping cart) because flexion opens the spinal canal.

The iliotibial band (ITB) originates primarily from the:

Answer: Tensor fascia latae and gluteus maximus

The ITB is the thickened lateral fascia of the thigh, formed by contributions from the tensor fascia latae and the superior fibers of gluteus maximus.

Which phase of tissue healing is characterized by collagen remodeling and scar maturation?

Answer: Remodeling phase

The remodeling phase (weeks to years) involves reorganization of collagen fibers along lines of stress to improve tensile strength.

The Q-angle is measured between the line of pull of the quadriceps and the:

Answer: Patellar tendon to the tibial tubercle

The Q-angle is formed by a line from the ASIS to the patella center and a line from the patella center to the tibial tubercle.

Which muscle group is primarily responsible for lumbar extension and is commonly hypertonic in individuals with anterior pelvic tilt?

Answer: Erector spinae

The erector spinae group (iliocostalis, longissimus, spinalis) extends the lumbar spine and is typically overactive with anterior pelvic tilt.

Rheumatoid arthritis preferentially affects which joint compartments of the hand?

Answer: Metacarpophalangeal (MCP) and proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joints

Rheumatoid arthritis classically involves the MCP and PIP joints bilaterally, sparing the DIP joints — the opposite pattern from osteoarthritis.