Long Bone Flashcards
What are long bones?
Cylindrical in shape, longer than they are wide
Examples include humerus, femur, and metacarpals.
Where are long bones found?
In arms, legs, fingers, and toes
Specific examples include humerus, radius, femur, and phalanges.
What is the primary function of long bones?
Act as levers to facilitate movement when muscles contract
What is the diaphysis of a long bone?
Tubular shaft running between proximal & distal ends
What is found inside the medullary cavity of a long bone?
Yellow marrow (fat storage)
What type of bone makes up the walls of the diaphysis?
Compact bone (dense & hard)
What is the epiphysis of a long bone?
Wider sections at each end, filled with spongy bone
What fills the spaces in the spongy bone of the epiphysis?
Red marrow (blood cell production)
What is the epiphyseal plate?
Growth plate present in growing bones
What does the epiphyseal plate turn into when growth stops?
Epiphyseal line
What is the metaphysis?
Narrow region between diaphysis & epiphysis
What type of cartilage is the epiphyseal plate made of during growth?
Hyaline cartilage
At what age does the epiphyseal plate typically transform into the epiphyseal line?
Around 18–21 years
What lines the medullary cavity?
Endosteum (delicate membrane)
What is the function of the endosteum?
Important for bone growth, repair, & remodeling
What is the periosteum?
Fibrous membrane covering the outer surface of bone
What does the periosteum contain?
Blood vessels, nerves, lymphatic vessels for bone nourishment
Where do tendons & ligaments attach to bones?
At the periosteum
What is articular cartilage?
Thin layer of cartilage at joint surfaces
What is the function of articular cartilage?
Reduces friction & absorbs shock
True or False: Epiphyseal plates in children are one of the weakest parts of growing bones.
True
What can fractures in the epiphyseal plate cause?
Growth problems, deformities, and arthritis
