Types of Bones

Flashcards covering the five main types of bones based on shape classification.

Long Bones

Bones that are longer than they are wide, typically found in the arms and legs.

Short Bones

Bones that are approximately equal in length, width, and depth, mainly found in the wrists and ankles.

Flat Bones

Thin, flattened, and often curved bones; examples include the skull bones, sternum, and ribs.

Sesamoid Bones

Bones that form within a tendon, such as the patella (kneecap).

Irregular Bones

Bones that have complex shapes that do not fit into the other categories, such as the vertebrae.

Shape Classification of Bones

Bones are classified into types based on their shape, not necessarily their size.

Motility

The ability to move, which is the primary purpose of long bones acting as levers.

Phalanges

The individual bones of the fingers and toes; classified as long bones.

Metacarpals

The long bones located in the palm of the hand.

Carpals

The short bones located in the wrist.

Tarsals

The short bones located in the ankle.

Sternum

A flat bone that is the plate in between your ribs.

Scapula

Another flat bone, also known as the shoulder blade.

Patella

A sesamoid bone, also known as the kneecap.

Vertebrae

Irregular bones that make up the vertebral column.

Humerus

A long bone of the upper arm.

Ulna

A long bone located on the medial side of the arm.

Femur

The long and large bone of the thigh.

Tendons

Connective tissues that attach muscles to bones.

Ossification

The process of bone formation.

Quadriceps

Muscles of the anterior thigh, which are connected to the patella by a tendon.

Long Bone Function

Act as levers for movement, enabling motility.

Short Bone Function

Provide stability and support, especially in the wrists and ankles.

Flat Bone Function

Provide protection to underlying organs and structures, e.g., the skull.

Sesamoid Bone Function

Protect tendons from friction and damage, like the patella protecting the knee joint.

Irregular Bone Characteristics

Complex shapes with processes, holes, and no common characteristics.

Examples of Long Bones

Humerus, ulna, femur, phalanges, metacarpals

Examples of Short Bones

Carpals (wrist) and tarsals (ankle)

Examples of Flat Bones

Skull bones, sternum, ribs, scapula

Examples of Irregular Bones

Vertebrae