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Kinesiology Dictionary
Please use this dictionary of professional kinesiology terms and definitions to help you learn. New terms and definitions will be added on a regular basis for you to learn from. I have decided to extend the dictionary to include terms and definitions from sciences that relate to and support being a kinesiologist or any other healthcare professional. Knowledge itself is power - use the dictionary to empower yourself. Please use the letters in blue below as links to get to the first letter of the term you are looking for. You will be transferred to another page containing those terms and definitions accordingly. Enjoy!
Term | Definition | Associated Field |
|---|---|---|
ATP synthase | Enzyme producing ATP in mitochondria | Biochemistry / Physiology |
ATPase | Enzyme that hydrolyzes ATP | Biochemistry / Physiology |
Abduction | Movement of a limb away from the midline of the body | Anatomy / Biomechanics |
Absorption | Process by which nutrients are taken into the bloodstream | Nutrition / Physiology |
Accommodation | Eye lens adjustment to focus on near/far objects | Physiology |
Acute injury | Injury with sudden onset and short duration | Sport Injury / First Aid |
Adaptation | Adjustment of body to stress or environment | Physiology / Exercise Physiology |
Adduction | Movement of a limb toward the midline | Anatomy / Biomechanics |
Adenine | Nitrogenous base in DNA and RNA | Genetics / Biochemistry |
Adenosine diphosphate (ADP) | Molecule formed after ATP loses one phosphate | Biochemistry / Physiology |
Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) | Primary energy carrier in cells | Biochemistry / Physiology |
Adenovirus | Virus causing respiratory infections | Biology / Pathophysiology |
Adipose tissue | Fat tissue storing energy | Anatomy / Nutrition |
Adrenal gland | Endocrine gland producing hormones like cortisol | Anatomy / Physiology |
Adrenergic receptor | Receptor responding to adrenaline/noradrenaline | Physiology / Pharmacology |
Adson’s test | Clinical test for thoracic outlet syndrome | Exercise Testing / Sport Injury |
Aerobic exercise | Exercise requiring oxygen for energy production | Exercise Physiology / Strength & Conditioning |
Aerobic metabolism | Energy production using oxygen | Exercise Physiology / Physiology |
Agility | Ability to change direction rapidly | Strength & Conditioning / Exercise Physiology |
Agonist | Muscle responsible for movement | Biomechanics / Strength & Conditioning |
Agoraphobia | Fear of open or crowded spaces | Psychology / Psychiatry |
Albumin | Plasma protein maintaining osmotic pressure | Nutrition / Physiology |
Albuminuria | Presence of albumin in urine | Pathophysiology / Physiology |
Alkaline phosphatase | Enzyme involved in bone metabolism | Biochemistry / Physiology |
Alkalosis | Elevated blood pH | Pathophysiology / Physiology |
Allostasis | Process of achieving stability through physiological change | Physiology / Psychology |
Allosteric site | Non-active site on enzyme influencing activity | Biochemistry / Physiology |
Alpha motor neuron | Neuron that stimulates skeletal muscle contraction | Physiology / Motor Behavior |
Alpha rhythm | Brainwave pattern seen on EEG | Neuroscience / Psychology |
Alpha-linolenic acid | Essential omega-3 fatty acid | Nutrition / Biochemistry |
Altered mental status | Change in consciousness or cognition | First Aid / Pathophysiology |
Alternating current | Electric current changing direction periodically | Physics / Biomechanics |
Alveolar macrophage | Immune cell in alveoli engulfing pathogens | Biology / Physiology |
Alveolar ventilation | Volume of air reaching alveoli per minute | Exercise Physiology / Physiology |
Alveoli | Tiny air sacs in the lungs for gas exchange | Anatomy / Physiology |
Ambulation | Act of walking | Exercise Physiology / Rehabilitation |
Amenorrhea | Absence of menstruation | Physiology / Nutrition |
Amnesia | Partial or total memory loss | Psychology / Neuroscience |
Amygdala | Brain region involved in emotion processing | Psychology / Neuroscience |
Amylase | Enzyme breaking down starch | Biochemistry / Nutrition |
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis | Neurodegenerative disease affecting motor neurons | Neurology / Motor Behavior |
Anabolism | Process of building complex molecules from simpler ones | Biochemistry / Physiology |
Anaerobic metabolism | Energy production without oxygen | Exercise Physiology / Physiology |
Anal sphincter | Muscle controlling defecation | Anatomy / Physiology |
Analgesia | Absence of pain | First Aid / Physiology |
Analysis of variance | Statistical method to compare group means | Sociology / Psychology |
Anaphylactic shock | Life-threatening allergic reaction | First Aid / ACLS |
Anaphylaxis | Severe allergic reaction | First Aid / ACLS |
Anatomy | Study of body structure | Anatomy |
Anatomy lab | Laboratory for studying human/animal structure | Anatomy / Education |
Androgen | Male sex hormone | Physiology / Endocrinology |
Anemia | Deficiency of red blood cells or hemoglobin | Nutrition / Physiology |
Anemia ferriprive | Iron-deficiency anemia | Nutrition / Physiology |
Anemia perniciosa | Vitamin B12 deficiency anemia | Nutrition / Physiology |
Angina | Chest pain due to reduced blood flow to the heart | Pathophysiology / ACLS |
Angiogenesis | Formation of new blood vessels | Physiology / Pathophysiology |
Angular momentum | Rotational equivalent of linear momentum | Physics / Biomechanics |
Angular velocity | Rate of change of angular position | Biomechanics / Physics |
Ankle dorsiflexion | Upward movement of the foot at the ankle | Biomechanics / Exercise Physiology |
Ankle inversion | Inward movement of the foot | Biomechanics / Exercise Physiology |
Ankle plantarflexion | Downward movement of the foot | Biomechanics / Exercise Physiology |
Ankle sprain | Injury to ligaments of the ankle | Sport Injury / First Aid |
Antagonist | Muscle opposing the action of another muscle | Biomechanics / Strength & Conditioning |
Anterior | Front of the body | Anatomy |
Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) | Ligament stabilizing the knee | Anatomy / Sport Injury |
Antibody | Protein produced by immune system to neutralize antigens | Immunology / Biology |
Antigen | Substance that triggers an immune response | Immunology / Biology |
Antigen-presenting cell | Immune cell displaying antigen to T-cells | Immunology / Biology |
Anxiety | Emotional state characterized by apprehension | Psychology / Sport Psychology |
Anxiety disorder | Psychological condition with excessive anxiety | Psychology / Psychiatry |
Aorta | Main artery carrying blood from the heart | Anatomy / Physiology |
Aortic valve | Valve controlling blood flow from heart to aorta | Anatomy / Physiology |
Apnea | Temporary cessation of breathing | Physiology / Exercise Testing |
Aponeurosis | Flat tendon connecting muscle to bone | Anatomy / Biomechanics |
Appendicular skeleton | Bones of the limbs and girdles | Anatomy |
Appraisal | Cognitive evaluation of stressors | Psychology / Sport Psychology |
Apraxia | Inability to perform motor tasks despite intact muscles | Neurology / Motor Behavior |
Aquaporin | Protein channel facilitating water movement in cells | Physiology / Biochemistry |
Aqueous humor | Fluid in the eye between cornea and lens | Anatomy / Physiology |
Arrhythmia | Irregular heartbeat | ECG / Pathophysiology |
Arteriole | Small branch of an artery | Anatomy / Physiology |
Artery | Blood vessel carrying blood away from heart | Anatomy / Physiology |
Arthritis | Inflammation of joints | Pathophysiology / Sport Injury |
Articular cartilage | Smooth tissue covering bone ends in joints | Anatomy / Biomechanics |
Articulation | Joint connecting bones | Anatomy / Biomechanics |
Aspiration | Inhalation of foreign material into lungs | First Aid / Pathophysiology |
Assessment | Evaluation of performance or condition | Exercise Testing / Psychology |
Asthma | Chronic airway inflammation causing breathing difficulty | Pathophysiology / Physiology |
Astigmatism | Eye defect causing blurred vision | Anatomy / Physiology |
Atrophy | Decrease in size of tissue or muscle | Physiology / Strength & Conditioning |
Attentional focus | Concentration on specific stimuli during performance | Sport Psychology / Psychology |
Auditory cortex | Brain region processing sound | Anatomy / Psychology |
Auditory nerve | Nerve transmitting sound signals to brain | Anatomy / Neuroscience |
Autoclave | Device for sterilizing equipment using steam | Biology / First Aid |
Autonomic nervous system | Part of nervous system controlling involuntary functions | Physiology / Anatomy |
Autophagy | Cellular process of degrading damaged organelles | Biology / Physiology |
Axial load | Force applied along the axis of a structure | Biomechanics / Physics |
Axial rotation | Rotation around the long axis of a body segment | Biomechanics / Exercise Physiology |
Axial skeleton | Bones of the head, neck, and trunk | Anatomy |
Axis | Second cervical vertebra (C2) | Anatomy |
Axon | Nerve fiber transmitting impulses from neuron | Anatomy / Neuroscience |
Term | Definition | Associated Field |
|---|---|---|
Blood pressure | Force exerted by blood on arterial walls | Physiology / Pathophysiology |
Brain death | Irreversible cessation of brain activity | Pathophysiology / ACLS |
Breath-holding test | Measure of respiratory capacity | Exercise Testing / Physiology |
Brain injury | Damage to brain tissue | Pathophysiology / Sport Injury |
Brain cortex | Outer layer of the brain | Anatomy / Neuroscience |
Biodynamics | Study of forces in biological systems | Biomechanics / Physics |
Botulinum toxin | Neurotoxin causing muscle paralysis | Pathophysiology / Pharmacology |
Blood lipids | Fats present in the bloodstream | Nutrition / Physiology |
Biceps femoris | Muscle of the posterior thigh | Anatomy / Biomechanics |
Blood volume | Total amount of blood in body | Physiology / Pathophysiology |
Buffers | Substances maintaining pH stability | Chemistry / Physiology |
Blood pH | Measure of acidity/alkalinity in blood | Physiology / Pathophysiology |
Bioinformatics | Application of computational tools to biology | Genetics / Biology |
Blood alcohol concentration (BAC) | Measure of alcohol in bloodstream | Physiology / Pathophysiology |
Bronchitis | Inflammation of the bronchi | Pathophysiology / Physiology |
Body awareness | Conscious perception of body position | Motor Behavior / Psychology |
Bulbourethral gland | Gland producing pre-ejaculate fluid | Anatomy / Physiology |
Blood doping | Illegally increasing red blood cell count | Exercise Physiology / Ethics |
Brain hemorrhage | Bleeding within the brain | Pathophysiology / First Aid |
Bursitis | Inflammation of a bursa | Sport Injury / Pathophysiology |
Bronchopneumonia | Infection of the bronchi and lungs | Pathophysiology / Medicine |
Blood flow | Movement of blood through vessels | Physiology / Biomechanics |
Bone mineral content | Amount of mineral in bones | Nutrition / Exercise Physiology |
Body temperature | Measurement of internal heat | Physiology / Pathophysiology |
Body temperature measurement | Assessment of internal body heat | Physiology / First Aid |
Bronchoscopy | Procedure to view inside the airways | Medicine / First Aid |
Breathing rate | Number of breaths per minute | Physiology / Exercise Physiology |
Body temperature regulation | Physiological control of heat balance | Physiology / Exercise Physiology |
Bradycardia-tachycardia syndrome | Alternating slow and fast heart rate | ECG / Pathophysiology |
Body alignment | Correct posture of body segments | Biomechanics / Exercise Physiology |
Body composition | Proportion of fat, muscle, and bone in body | Exercise Physiology / Nutrition |
Bulging disk | Protrusion of intervertebral disc | Pathophysiology / Sport Injury |
Biochemistry | Study of chemical processes in living organisms | Biochemistry / Biology |
Body mechanics | Principles of movement to prevent injury | Biomechanics / Exercise Physiology |
Buccinator | Muscle of the cheek | Anatomy / Biomechanics |
Bradyapnea | Abnormally slow breathing | Physiology / Pathophysiology |
Biopsy | Sample of tissue for diagnostic examination | Pathophysiology / Medicine |
Bone age | Assessment of skeletal maturity | Medicine / Exercise Testing |
Bone scan | Imaging test detecting bone abnormalities | Pathophysiology / Medicine |
Bursae | Fluid-filled sacs reducing friction at joints | Anatomy / Biomechanics |
Brain lateralization | Specialization of brain hemispheres | Neuroscience / Psychology |
Bronchoconstriction | Narrowing of the airways | Physiology / Pathophysiology |
Basophil | White blood cell involved in immune response | Biology / Immunology |
Brain tumor grading | Classification of tumor severity | Pathophysiology / Medicine |
Brainstem reflex | Automatic response mediated by brainstem | Neuroscience / Physiology |
Body weight | Total mass of an individual | Nutrition / Exercise Physiology |
Biomechanics | Study of movement mechanics in biological systems | Biomechanics / Exercise Physiology |
Buffers system | Mechanism regulating pH in body fluids | Chemistry / Physiology |
Brachial plexus | Network of nerves supplying upper limb | Anatomy / Neuroscience |
Brain plasticity assessment | Measurement of brain adaptability | Neuroscience / Psychology |
Brainstem | Region connecting brain to spinal cord | Anatomy / Neuroscience |
Brain aneurysm | Abnormal dilation of brain blood vessel | Pathophysiology / Medicine |
Brain wave | Electrical activity in the brain | Neuroscience / Psychology |
Brain plasticity | Ability of brain to reorganize after injury | Neuroscience / Psychology |
Bone tissue | Connective tissue forming bones | Anatomy / Physiology |
Bone remodeling | Continuous replacement of bone tissue | Physiology / Exercise Physiology |
Body fat percentage | Proportion of body mass composed of fat | Nutrition / Exercise Physiology |
Bone marrow | Soft tissue inside bones producing blood cells | Anatomy / Physiology |
Brain tumor | Abnormal growth of brain cells | Pathophysiology / Neuroscience |
Biomechanical analysis | Study of movement forces on the body | Biomechanics / Motion Analysis |
Balance | Ability to maintain body equilibrium | Biomechanics / Exercise Physiology |
Biochemical marker | Substance indicating a biological process | Biochemistry / Pathophysiology |
Buccal | Relating to the cheek | Anatomy / Physiology |
Bronchi | Main air passages to lungs | Anatomy / Physiology |
Bioavailability | Proportion of nutrient absorbed and utilized by body | Nutrition / Physiology |
Brachial artery | Major artery of the upper arm | Anatomy / Physiology |
Beta-oxidation | Fatty acid breakdown for energy | Biochemistry / Exercise Physiology |
Bradykinesia | Slowness of movement | Neurology / Motor Behavior |
Blood lactate | Lactic acid concentration in blood | Exercise Physiology / Biochemistry |
Bradycardia | Slow heart rate | ECG / Physiology |
Biosynthesis | Production of complex molecules from simpler ones | Biochemistry / Physiology |
Bone spur | Bony growth on normal bone | Pathophysiology / Sport Injury |
Bone fracture | Break in the bone structure | Sport Injury / First Aid |
Blood sugar | Concentration of glucose in blood | Nutrition / Physiology |
Bulimia nervosa | Eating disorder with binge-purge behavior | Psychology / Nutrition |
Body mass index (BMI) | Ratio of weight to height squared | Nutrition / Exercise Physiology |
Biceps brachii | Muscle of the upper arm responsible for elbow flexion | Anatomy / Biomechanics |
B-vitamin | Group of water-soluble vitamins important for metabolism | Nutrition / Biochemistry |
Bulimia | Eating disorder with binge and purge cycles | Psychology / Nutrition |
Blood culture | Test to detect infection in blood | Pathophysiology / Medicine |
Brain imaging | Techniques visualizing brain structure/function | Medicine / Neuroscience |
Biostatistics | Application of statistics to biological data | Biology / Sociology |
Blood donor | Person giving blood for transfusion | Medicine / First Aid |
Beta-blocker | Medication reducing heart rate and blood pressure | Pharmacology / Physiology |
Bone stress injury | Overuse injury causing bone microdamage | Sport Injury / Exercise Physiology |
Bone scan imaging | Nuclear imaging to detect bone disorders | Pathophysiology / Medicine |
Bronchopulmonary segment | Functional subdivision of the lung | Anatomy / Physiology |
Blood transfusion | Transfer of blood into a patient | Medicine / First Aid |
Blood gas | Measurement of oxygen and carbon dioxide in blood | Physiology / Pathophysiology |
Basal metabolic rate (BMR) | Energy expenditure at rest | Nutrition / Physiology |
Bone density | Mass of bone tissue per unit volume | Anatomy / Exercise Physiology |
Bronchodilator therapy | Treatment widening the airways | Pathophysiology / Medicine |
Bronchodilator | Medication that widens airways | Pharmacology / Physiology |
Blood clot | Aggregation of blood components forming a mass | Pathophysiology / First Aid |
Brain function | Activities of the brain, including cognition | Neuroscience / Psychology |
Bone fracture healing | Biological process of bone repair | Physiology / Sport Injury |
Blood pressure cuff | Device measuring blood pressure | Physiology / First Aid |
Blood-brain barrier | Protective barrier separating blood from brain | Anatomy / Physiology |
Biofeedback | Technique for controlling physiological functions | Psychology / Exercise Physiology |
Blood glucose | Concentration of sugar in blood | Nutrition / Physiology |
Bolus | Mass of food swallowed | Nutrition / Physiology |
Term | Definition | Associated Field |
|---|---|---|
Cytokine | Signaling molecule in immune system | Biology / Pathophysiology |
Cardiac cycle | Sequence of heart contraction and relaxation | Physiology / Exercise Physiology |
Cognitive function | Mental processes like memory and attention | Psychology / Sport Psychology |
Contrast agent | Substance improving imaging visibility | Medicine / Pathophysiology |
Cardiac stress test | Assessment of heart under stress | Exercise Testing / Physiology |
Coagulation | Process of blood clotting | Physiology / Pathophysiology |
Cori cycle | Metabolic pathway converting lactate to glucose | Biochemistry / Exercise Physiology |
Cardiovascular disease | Diseases affecting heart and blood vessels | Pathophysiology / Medicine |
Cortical bone | Dense outer layer of bone | Anatomy / Biomechanics |
Control group | Group not receiving intervention in study | Sociology / Exercise Testing |
Cortisol | Stress hormone released by adrenal gland | Physiology / Psychology |
Cerebrospinal fluid | Fluid cushioning brain and spinal cord | Anatomy / Physiology |
Cortex | Outer layer of organ (e.g., brain) | Anatomy / Neuroscience |
Cell membrane | Semi-permeable outer layer of cell | Biology / Physiology |
Cardiac rhythm | Pattern of heartbeats | ECG / Physiology |
Cone cells | Retinal photoreceptors for color vision | Anatomy / Physiology |
Capsule (joint) | Fibrous structure surrounding joint | Anatomy / Biomechanics |
Chi-square test | Statistical test for categorical data | Sociology / Biostatistics |
Cardiomyocyte | Heart muscle cell | Anatomy / Physiology |
Cervical spine | Neck portion of the vertebral column | Anatomy / Biomechanics |
Catabolism | Breakdown of complex molecules | Biochemistry / Physiology |
Cervical vertebrae | Vertebrae of the neck | Anatomy / Biomechanics |
Cerebral hemisphere | One half of the cerebrum | Anatomy / Neuroscience |
Chest wall | Muscles and bones surrounding thorax | Anatomy / Biomechanics |
Calf muscle | Muscle group at back of lower leg | Anatomy / Biomechanics |
Compartment syndrome | Increased pressure within muscle compartment | Sport Injury / First Aid |
Chronic disease | Long-lasting health condition | Pathophysiology / Medicine |
Caloric expenditure | Energy used by body for activity | Exercise Physiology / Nutrition |
Cardiorespiratory system | Heart and lungs functioning together | Anatomy / Physiology |
Capillary | Smallest blood vessel | Anatomy / Physiology |
Curare | Muscle relaxant toxin | Pharmacology / Physiology |
Circulatory system | Heart and vessels transporting blood | Anatomy / Physiology |
Cognitive load | Mental effort required for a task | Psychology / Motor Behavior |
Creatine phosphate | Energy storage molecule in muscles | Exercise Physiology / Biochemistry |
Creatinine | Waste product of muscle metabolism | Physiology / Pathophysiology |
Chest compression | Component of CPR | ACLS / First Aid |
Cytoplasm | Material inside cell excluding nucleus | Biology / Physiology |
Calcaneus | Heel bone of the foot | Anatomy / Biomechanics |
Constipation | Difficulty in bowel movements | Pathophysiology / Nutrition |
Connective tissue | Tissue supporting and connecting body parts | Anatomy / Biomechanics |
Crepitus | Crackling sound in joints or lungs | Pathophysiology / Sport Injury |
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) | Emergency procedure for cardiac arrest | ACLS / First Aid |
Cubital tunnel syndrome | Compression of ulnar nerve at elbow | Pathophysiology / Sport Injury |
Coordination | Ability to execute smooth, controlled movements | Motor Behavior / Exercise Physiology |
Convection | Heat transfer via fluid motion | Physics / Exercise Physiology |
Colostomy | Surgical opening of colon | Medicine / Pathophysiology |
Concentric contraction | Muscle shortening during contraction | Exercise Physiology / Strength and Conditioning |
Cardiac rehabilitation | Program to restore heart health | Exercise Physiology / Medicine |
Circumduction | Circular movement of a limb | Biomechanics / Exercise Physiology |
Compensation (exercise) | Adjustments in movement to maintain performance | Biomechanics / Exercise Physiology |
Cardiovascular response | Heart and vessel adaptation to stress | Exercise Physiology / Physiology |
Cellular respiration | Process of converting glucose to energy | Biochemistry / Physiology |
Calcification | Deposition of calcium in tissue | Pathophysiology / Physiology |
Cardiorespiratory fitness | Ability of heart and lungs to supply oxygen | Exercise Physiology / Strength and Conditioning |
Confounding variable | Factor affecting study results | Sociology / Psychology |
Carbohydrate | Macronutrient providing energy | Nutrition / Biochemistry |
Chondrocyte | Cell forming cartilage | Anatomy / Physiology |
Circadian rhythm | Biological cycle of ~24 hours | Physiology / Psychology |
Cartilage | Flexible connective tissue at joints | Anatomy / Biomechanics |
Compliance (respiratory) | Lung expandability | Physiology / Exercise Physiology |
Child development | Physical and cognitive growth in children | Motor Behavior / Psychology |
Coenzyme | Molecule assisting enzyme activity | Biochemistry / Physiology |
Cardiovascular system | Heart and blood vessels | Anatomy / Physiology |
Cytotoxic | Cell-damaging or killing | Pathophysiology / Biology |
Colon | Part of large intestine | Anatomy / Physiology |
Cerebellum | Brain region coordinating movement | Anatomy / Neuroscience |
Central nervous system (CNS) | Brain and spinal cord | Anatomy / Neuroscience |
Consciousness | Awareness of self and environment | Neuroscience / Psychology |
Capillary refill | Time for color to return to nail bed | First Aid / Physiology |
Carpal tunnel syndrome | Compression of median nerve at wrist | Pathophysiology / Sport Injury |
Chemotaxis | Movement of cells toward chemical stimulus | Biology / Physiology |
Caloric intake | Total energy consumed from food | Nutrition / Exercise Physiology |
Cardiac output | Volume of blood pumped per minute | Physiology / Exercise Physiology |
Cross-bridge | Interaction between actin and myosin in muscle contraction | Exercise Physiology / Biochemistry |
Colles fracture | Fracture of distal radius | Sport Injury / Pathophysiology |
Cutaneous sensation | Skin-based sensory perception | Physiology / Motor Behavior |
Coma | State of prolonged unconsciousness | Pathophysiology / Neuroscience |
Cross-sectional study | Observational study at a single time point | Sociology / Exercise Testing |
Collagen | Protein forming connective tissue | Anatomy / Biochemistry |
Carbohydrate metabolism | Conversion of carbs to energy | Physiology / Biochemistry |
Cognitive therapy | Psychological treatment targeting thoughts | Psychology / Sport Psychology |
Cardiomegaly | Enlargement of the heart | Pathophysiology / Medicine |
Cytoskeleton | Network of fibers supporting cell structure | Biology / Biomechanics |
Cryotherapy | Cold therapy for injury treatment | Sport Injury / Exercise Physiology |
Cell cycle | Series of phases a cell goes through | Biology / Genetics |
Clinical nutrition | Use of nutrition in treatment | Nutrition / Medicine |
Cardiac arrest | Sudden cessation of heart function | ACLS / First Aid |
Clinical assessment | Evaluation of patient condition | Medicine / Exercise Testing |
Cell | Basic unit of life | Biology / Anatomy |
Chemoreceptor | Sensor detecting chemical changes | Physiology / Biology |
Cardiomyopathy | Disease of heart muscle | Pathophysiology / Medicine |
Clavicle | Collarbone connecting arm to trunk | Anatomy / Biomechanics |
Carpal bones | Bones of the wrist | Anatomy / Biomechanics |
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) | Progressive lung disease | Pathophysiology / Medicine |
Continuous passive motion (CPM) | Device moving joint after surgery | Exercise Physiology / Biomechanics |
Cell differentiation | Process by which cells become specialized | Biology / Genetics |
Cardiovascular endurance | Ability to sustain aerobic activity | Exercise Physiology / Strength and Conditioning |
Catecholamine | Hormones like adrenaline | Physiology / Biochemistry |
Cerebral cortex | Outer layer of brain involved in cognition | Neuroscience / Psychology |
Cataract | Clouding of the eye lens | Pathophysiology / Medicine |
Term | Definition | Associated Field |
|---|---|---|
DNA (Deoxyribonucleic acid) | Molecule carrying genetic information | Genetics / Biology |
DNA damage | Alteration in DNA structure | Genetics / Pathophysiology |
DNA repair | Mechanisms fixing DNA damage | Genetics / Biochemistry |
DNA replication | Process of copying DNA | Genetics / Biology |
Dendrite | Branch of neuron receiving signals | Neuroscience / Biology |
Denervation | Loss of nerve supply to tissue | Neuroscience / Pathophysiology |
Dependent variable | Outcome measured in an experiment | Sociology / Psychology |
Depolarization | Reduction of electrical charge across cell membrane | Physiology / ECG |
Depolarization wave | Electrical impulse in muscle or heart | ECG / Physiology |
Depression | Mood disorder with persistent sadness | Psychology / Sport Psychology |
Dermatology | Study of skin and its diseases | Medicine / Pathophysiology |
Dermatome | Skin area supplied by a single spinal nerve | Anatomy / Neuroscience |
Dermis | Middle layer of skin | Anatomy / Physiology |
Desaturation | Decrease in oxygen saturation | Pathophysiology / Exercise Physiology |
Desmosome | Cell structure for adhesion | Biology / Anatomy |
Detection threshold | Minimum stimulus intensity sensed | Psychology / Physiology |
Determinant of health | Factor influencing health outcomes | Sociology / Public Health |
Determinism | Belief that behavior is determined by causes | Psychology / Sociology |
Detoxification | Removal of toxins from body | Physiology / Nutrition |
Developmental milestone | Age-specific achievement in growth | Motor Behavior / Psychology |
Deviated septum | Displacement of nasal septum | Anatomy / Pathophysiology |
Diabetes mellitus | Metabolic disorder with high blood sugar | Pathophysiology / Nutrition |
Diabetic foot | Foot complication due to diabetes | Pathophysiology / Medicine |
Diabetic ketoacidosis | Dangerous complication of diabetes | Pathophysiology / Medicine |
Diabetic neuropathy | Nerve damage due to diabetes | Pathophysiology / Medicine |
Diabetic retinopathy | Eye damage caused by diabetes | Pathophysiology / Medicine |
Diagnostic test | Procedure to identify disease | Medicine / Pathophysiology |
Diaphragm | Primary muscle for respiration | Anatomy / Physiology |
Diaphragmatic breathing | Deep breathing using diaphragm | Exercise Physiology / Psychology |
Diastasis recti | Separation of abdominal muscles | Physiology / Exercise Physiology |
Diastole | Phase of heart relaxation | Physiology / Cardiology |
Diastolic blood pressure | Pressure during heart relaxation | Physiology / Cardiology |
Diencephalon | Region of brain including thalamus and hypothalamus | Anatomy / Neuroscience |
Diffuse injury | Widespread tissue damage | Pathophysiology / Sport Injury |
Diffusion | Movement of molecules from high to low concentration | Biology / Chemistry / Physiology |
Diffusion gradient | Difference driving diffusion | Physiology / Chemistry |
Digestion | Breakdown of food into absorbable components | Physiology / Nutrition |
Digestive enzyme | Substance breaking down food | Nutrition / Biochemistry |
Digestive system | Organs involved in food processing | Anatomy / Physiology |
Digital rectal exam | Clinical exam of rectum | Medicine / First Aid |
Digital sensor | Device converting physiological signal to digital | Biomechanics / Motion Analysis |
Digitalis | Heart medication from plant source | Pharmacology / Physiology |
Dilation | Widening of vessel or organ | Physiology / Pathophysiology |
Dimorphism | Existence of two distinct forms in a species | Biology / Genetics |
Dislocation | Joint displacement from normal position | Sport Injury / First Aid |
Disorientation | Confusion regarding time, place, or person | Psychology / Neurology |
Distal | Farther from point of attachment | Anatomy / Biomechanics |
Distal phalanx | Bone at tip of fingers or toes | Anatomy / Biomechanics |
Disuse atrophy | Muscle wasting from inactivity | Exercise Physiology / Pathophysiology |
Diuretic | Substance promoting urine production | Pharmacology / Physiology |
Diurnal rhythm | Same as circadian rhythm; daily biological pattern | Physiology / Psychology |
Diurnal variation | Fluctuation of biological processes over day | Physiology / Psychology |
Dominance (genetics) | Expression of one allele over another | Genetics / Biology |
Dominant gene | Gene that expresses its trait over another | Genetics / Biology |
Dopamine | Neurotransmitter regulating movement and mood | Neuroscience / Psychology |
Doppler effect | Change in frequency of waves relative to motion | Physics / Biomechanics |
Dorsal | Relating to the back side of the body | Anatomy / Biomechanics |
Dorsal column | Part of spinal cord carrying sensory info | Neuroscience / Anatomy |
Dorsal flexion | Same as dorsiflexion; upward foot movement | Biomechanics / Exercise Physiology |
Dorsal root | Sensory nerve root of spinal cord | Anatomy / Neuroscience |
Dorsal root ganglion | Cluster of sensory neuron cell bodies | Anatomy / Neuroscience |
Dorsalis pedis artery | Artery on dorsal foot | Anatomy / Physiology |
Dorsiflexion | Upward movement of foot at ankle | Biomechanics / Exercise Physiology |
Dose-response | Effect of dose on outcome | Pharmacology / Physiology |
Dosing | Administration of medication amount | Pharmacology / Medicine |
Double-blind study | Research design reducing bias | Sociology / Psychology |
Double-support phase | Phase in gait when both feet are on ground | Biomechanics / Motion Analysis |
Down syndrome | Genetic disorder from trisomy 21 | Genetics / Pathophysiology |
Downhill running | Running on decline slope | Exercise Physiology / Biomechanics |
Downward phase | Eccentric portion of exercise | Exercise Physiology / Strength and Conditioning |
Drag force | Resistance force opposing motion through fluid | Physics / Biomechanics |
Drape test | Movement analysis using marker drapes | Motion Analysis / Biomechanics |
Duct | Tube conveying fluids in the body | Anatomy / Physiology |
Ductus arteriosus | Fetal blood vessel connecting pulmonary artery and aorta | Anatomy / Physiology |
Ductus venosus | Fetal vessel shunting blood past liver | Anatomy / Physiology |
Dumping syndrome | Rapid gastric emptying causing symptoms | Pathophysiology / Nutrition |
Duodenum | First part of the small intestine | Anatomy / Physiology |
Dynamic contraction | Muscle contraction with movement | Exercise Physiology / Strength and Conditioning |
Dynamic equilibrium | Balance maintained during motion | Biomechanics / Exercise Physiology |
Dynamic stretching | Stretching performed with movement | Exercise Physiology / Strength and Conditioning |
Dysarthria | Difficulty speaking due to muscle impairment | Neurology / Psychology |
Dysautonomia | Dysfunction of autonomic nervous system | Pathophysiology / Neuroscience |
Dyscalculia | Difficulty with arithmetic | Psychology / Education |
Dysgeometria | Impaired perception of distances | Neurology / Psychology |
Dysgeusia | Altered taste perception | Pathophysiology / Nutrition |
Dyskinesia | Abnormal or impaired movement | Motor Behavior / Pathophysiology |
Dyskinesia assessment | Evaluation of abnormal movements | Motor Behavior / Exercise Testing |
Dyslexia | Learning disorder affecting reading | Psychology / Education |
Dysmenorrhea | Painful menstruation | Pathophysiology / Physiology |
Dyspnea | Shortness of breath | Pathophysiology / First Aid |
Dyspnea scale | Tool to measure shortness of breath | Exercise Testing / Physiology |
Dyspraxia | Difficulty in motor planning | Motor Behavior / Psychology |
Dyssynchrony | Uncoordinated muscular or cardiac activity | Physiology / Exercise Testing |
Dysthymia | Chronic mild depression | Psychology / Sport Psychology |
Dystonia | Involuntary muscle contractions | Neurology / Motor Behavior |
Dystrophy | Degeneration of tissue or organ | Pathophysiology / Medicine |
Dysuria | Painful urination | Pathophysiology / Medicine |
Term | Definition | Associated Field |
|---|---|---|
ECG (Electrocardiogram) | Recording of heart's electrical activity | ECG / Cardiology |
EEG (Electroencephalogram) | Recording of brain electrical activity | Neuroscience / Physiology |
Ectopic beat | Abnormal heart beat originating outside normal conduction | ECG / Pathophysiology |
Ectopic pregnancy | Implantation of embryo outside uterus | Pathophysiology / Medicine |
Edema | Swelling due to fluid accumulation | Pathophysiology / First Aid |
Ejection fraction | Percentage of blood pumped from heart | Physiology / Cardiology |
Elasticity | Ability of tissue to return to original shape | Biomechanics / Exercise Physiology |
Electrocardiographic lead | Electrode position for ECG recording | ECG / Cardiology |
Electrocution | Injury from electric shock | First Aid / Pathophysiology |
Electrolysis | Chemical decomposition using electricity | Chemistry / Biochemistry |
Electrolyte | Mineral that conducts electricity in body fluids | Nutrition / Physiology |
Electromagnetic radiation | Energy waves emitted by charged particles | Physics / Biophysics |
Electromyography (EMG) | Recording of muscle electrical activity | Biomechanics / Exercise Testing |
Electron | Subatomic particle with negative charge | Chemistry / Physics |
Electron microscopy | Imaging technique using electrons | Biology / Biophysics |
Electron transport chain | Series of protein complexes producing ATP | Biochemistry / Physiology |
Electroplax | Specialized muscle for electrical discharge in some animals | Physiology / Biochemistry |
Electroporation | Increasing cell membrane permeability using electricity | Biology / Biochemistry |
Electrotherapy | Use of electrical stimulation for therapy | Exercise Physiology / Medicine |
Element | Substance consisting of one type of atom | Chemistry / Biology |
Elevation (shoulder) | Lifting arm upwards | Biomechanics / Exercise Physiology |
Elimination (exercise) | Removing fatigue or waste products from muscle | Exercise Physiology / Strength and Conditioning |
Elongation | Lengthening of tissue or muscle | Biomechanics / Exercise Physiology |
Embolic stroke | Stroke caused by obstruction of cerebral blood vessel | Pathophysiology / Medicine |
Embolism | Obstruction of blood vessel by clot or air | Pathophysiology / Medicine |
Embryo | Early stage of development after fertilization | Biology / Anatomy |
Emergency care | Immediate medical care for injury or illness | First Aid / ACLS |
Emesis | Vomiting | Pathophysiology / First Aid |
Emotional intelligence | Ability to recognize and manage emotions | Psychology / Sport Psychology |
Empathy | Ability to understand others' emotions | Psychology / Sport Psychology |
Empirical evidence | Knowledge gained through observation or experiment | Sociology / Psychology |
En bloc resection | Surgical removal of tissue in one piece | Medicine / Pathophysiology |
Endocardium | Inner lining of heart chambers | Anatomy / Physiology |
Endocrine hormone | Chemical messenger released into blood | Physiology / Biochemistry |
Endocrine system | Glands secreting hormones into blood | Anatomy / Physiology |
Endocrinology | Study of hormones and glands | Medicine / Physiology |
Endocytosis | Process of cells engulfing substances | Biology / Physiology |
Endogenous | Produced within the body | Physiology / Biochemistry |
Endorphin | Natural pain-relieving neuropeptide | Physiology / Psychology |
Endorphin release | Production of pain-relieving neuropeptides | Physiology / Psychology |
Endothelium | Inner lining of blood vessels | Anatomy / Physiology |
Endotracheal tube | Tube inserted into trachea for ventilation | Medicine / ACLS |
Endplate | Junction between nerve and muscle | Anatomy / Physiology |
Endurance | Ability to sustain physical effort | Exercise Physiology / Strength and Conditioning |
Endurance training | Exercise to improve stamina | Exercise Physiology / Strength and Conditioning |
Energy expenditure | Total energy used by body | Exercise Physiology / Nutrition |
Energy metabolism | Process of producing energy from nutrients | Physiology / Biochemistry |
Enkephalin | Peptide acting as neurotransmitter for pain relief | Neuroscience / Physiology |
Entrainment | Synchronization of biological rhythms | Physiology / Psychology |
Environmental stress | External factors affecting performance or health | Exercise Physiology / Psychology |
Enzyme | Protein catalyzing biochemical reactions | Biochemistry / Physiology |
Enzyme inhibition | Process reducing enzyme activity | Biochemistry / Pharmacology |
Enzyme kinetics | Study of enzyme reaction rates | Biochemistry / Chemistry |
Eosinophil | Type of white blood cell | Anatomy / Pathophysiology |
Epicondyle | Bony prominence near joint | Anatomy / Biomechanics |
Epidermis | Outermost skin layer | Anatomy / Physiology |
Epidural | Injection or block in spine | Medicine / Pathophysiology |
Epigenetics | Study of heritable changes not in DNA sequence | Genetics / Biology |
Epigenome | Chemical modifications regulating gene expression | Genetics / Biology |
Epilepsy | Neurological disorder causing seizures | Neurology / Pathophysiology |
Epinephrine | Hormone and neurotransmitter (adrenaline) | Physiology / Pharmacology |
Epiphyseal plate | Growth plate in long bones | Anatomy / Physiology |
Epiphysis | End part of long bone | Anatomy / Biomechanics |
Epiphysis fracture | Fracture at end of long bone | Sport Injury / Pathophysiology |
Epistasis | Interaction between genes affecting traits | Genetics / Biology |
Epistaxis | Nosebleed | First Aid / Medicine |
Equilibrium | State of balance | Biomechanics / Exercise Physiology |
Ergogenic aid | Substance or technique enhancing performance | Exercise Physiology / Nutrition |
Ergometry | Measurement of work output | Exercise Testing / Exercise Physiology |
Erythema | Redness of skin | Pathophysiology / First Aid |
Erythrocyte | Red blood cell | Anatomy / Physiology |
Erythropoiesis | Production of red blood cells | Physiology / Hematology |
Escalator test | Exercise test simulating stair climbing | Exercise Testing / Exercise Physiology |
Esophageal varices | Swollen veins in esophagus | Pathophysiology / Medicine |
Essential amino acid | Amino acid the body cannot synthesize | Nutrition / Biochemistry |
Estrogen | Female sex hormone | Physiology / Endocrinology |
Ethanol | Alcohol molecule | Biochemistry / Pharmacology |
Ethology | Study of animal behavior | Psychology / Biology |
Etiology | Study of disease causes | Pathophysiology / Medicine |
Eustachian tube | Canal connecting middle ear to pharynx | Anatomy / Physiology |
Eustress | Positive stress promoting performance | Psychology / Sport Psychology |
Evaluation (exercise) | Assessment of performance or fitness | Exercise Testing / Strength and Conditioning |
Evoked potential | Measured brain response to stimulus | Neuroscience / Physiology |
Excretion | Removal of waste from body | Physiology / Anatomy |
Exercise | Physical activity to improve health | Exercise Physiology / Strength and Conditioning |
Exercise adherence | Commitment to regular exercise | Psychology / Exercise Physiology |
Exercise capacity | Maximum physical output achievable | Exercise Physiology / Exercise Testing |
Exercise intensity | Level of effort during activity | Exercise Physiology / Strength and Conditioning |
Exercise prescription | Plan of exercise for health or performance | Exercise Physiology / Strength and Conditioning |
Exercise recovery | Period after activity for rest and adaptation | Exercise Physiology / Nutrition |
Exercise tolerance | Ability to perform physical activity without excessive fatigue | Exercise Physiology / Exercise Testing |
Exhalation | Breathing out | Physiology / Anatomy |
Exophthalmos | Protrusion of the eyeball | Pathophysiology / Medicine |
Expansion (lungs) | Increase in lung volume during inspiration | Physiology / Exercise Physiology |
Expectancy theory | Motivation depends on expected outcome | Psychology / Sport Psychology |
Exposure therapy | Treatment exposing patients to anxiety triggers | Psychology / Sport Psychology |
External rotation | Rotation away from body midline | Biomechanics / Exercise Physiology |
Extracellular fluid | Fluid outside cells | Physiology / Anatomy |
Extracorporeal circulation | Blood circulation outside body (e.g., heart-lung machine) | Medicine / Physiology |
Extrinsic motivation | Motivation from external rewards | Psychology / Sport Psychology |
Extrinsic muscles | Muscles originating outside the region they move | Anatomy / Biomechanics |
Eye-tracking | Measuring eye movement to study attention | Psychology / Motion Analysis |
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