Bone structure

Bone Structure

The bone structure (pronunciation: /boʊn ˈstrʌktʃər/) is a complex framework of the body that provides support, shape, and protection to the soft organs and tissues. It is composed of various types of bone tissue, including compact bone, spongy bone, and subchondral bone.

Etymology

The term "bone" originates from the Old English bān, which means "bone" or "tusk". The term "structure" comes from the Latin structura, meaning "a fitting together, building".

Types of Bones

There are five main types of bones in the human body:

1. Long bones: These are characterized by a shaft, known as the diaphysis, and two ends, known as the epiphysis. Examples include the femur and humerus.
2. Short bones: These are roughly cube-shaped and include the carpals and tarsals.
3. Flat bones: These are thin and flattened, and often provide protection. Examples include the skull, ribs, and sternum.
4. Irregular bones: These have complex shapes that do not fit into the other categories. Examples include the vertebrae and pelvis.
5. Sesamoid bones: These are small, round bones found in tendons. The most well-known example is the patella.

Bone Composition

Bones are composed of several layers:

1. Periosteum: This is a dense layer of vascular connective tissue enveloping the bones except at the surfaces of the joints.
2. Compact bone: This is the hard, dense outer layer of bone that provides strength and protection.
3. Spongy bone: This is found inside the compact bone and is lighter and less dense, with a honeycomb-like structure.
4. Bone marrow: This is the soft, fatty tissue that produces blood cells.

Related Terms

• Osteology: The study of the structure and function of the skeleton and bony structures.
• Osteocyte: A bone cell, formed when an osteoblast becomes embedded in the matrix it has secreted.
• Osteoclast: A large multinucleate bone cell that absorbs bone tissue during growth and healing.

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