OSTIAL/OSTEAL

OSTIAL/OSTEAL

Many a times, I have come across this error.  This simple confusion can be avoided if we try to remember where to use which one.  I will just try to explain as these two different spellings with same pronunciation will lead to a critical major error and often goes unnoticed, i.e., silly mistake.

OSTIAL:  This means related to ostia or an or-I-fice or a small opening.

OSTEAL:  This means related to ossEous or bone.

BOTTOM LINE

The best way to remember is quite simple.  The I of OSTIAL denotes the I of ORIFICE.

The same goes with ostium.

CALF VS CUFF

CALF/CUFF

Often times, I have come across this confusion of spelling.  I will just try to explain the way I remember these two different spellings with different meaning but same pronunciation.

CUFF:  In orthopedics files, by this the doctor generally means the rotator cuff of the shoulders, Upper extremities.

CALF:  This spelling refers to the calf muscles of the Legs.

BOTTOM LINE

CUFF:  The U denotes upper extremities.  Therefore Cuff means the rotator cuff muscles of the Upper extremities.

CALF:  The L denotes the Legs.  Therefore, calf means the calf muscles of the Legs.