Clinical Definition The small intestine is a 22-foot-long tube that breaks down food and consists of three segments, including the jejunum. The jejunum lies between the duodenum (i.e., the upper part of the small intestine) and the final section, known as the ileum. Along with the ileum, the jejunum is mainly responsible for nutrients being…
Jet lag
Clinical Definition Jet lag, also called time zone change syndrome, is a sleep disorder affecting travelers who cross several time zones. It can occur when the body’s biological clock becomes out of sync with the local time, and as a result those affected may be afflicted with insomnia, daytime sleepiness, moodiness, reduced performance and other…
Jock Itch
Clinical Definition Jock itch is a common dermatophyte infection affecting the groin area. It is most common in adolescent males. In Our Own Words Jock itch is a type of fungal infection similar to ringworm. It can be found around the groin and upper inner thigh. Dermatophyte fungi like to live on moist areas of…
Joint
Clinical Definition A joint is the point of articulation between two or more rigid skeletal components, which usually allows movement. Joints consist of the synovial membrane, fluid and fibrous tissue. Joints are classified functionally and structurally, and provide mechanical support. Synovial joints, which move freely, are the most common joint in the human body. In Our…
Joint Injection
Clinical Definition Joint injections and aspirations are used for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes for a variety of musculoskeletal conditions. For diagnostic purposes, fluid aspiration and analysis of the fluid can help identify a variety of joint pathologies. Also, a response to an injected anesthetic can help diagnose certain joint conditions. Injections of a glucocorticoids…
Joint Sprain
Clinical Definition Joint sprain is the stretching or tearing of the connective tissue that connects bone to bone and supports the joints, also known as a ligament. It’s often confused with a strain, defined as an injury to a muscle or tendon, the cord of tissue that attaches muscle to bone. Pain, bruising, swelling and…
Joint Sprain
Clinical Definition The jugular veins include the internal and external jugular, which are major blood vessels, located on each side of the neck. These veins transport deoxygenated blood from the neck, face and head back to the heart. In a physical exam, distention of the jugular veins can be a clinical sign of heart failure.…