Bone Classification
Bones are classified into four main categories based on their shapes: long, short, flat, and irregular. Long bones, such as the femur, are longer than they are wide and primarily function in movement. Short bones, like the carpals, are roughly cube-shaped and provide stability. Flat bones, such as the skull, serve protective functions, while irregular bones, like the vertebrae, have complex shapes that fulfill various roles.
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Structural Joint Classifications
Long Bones
Long bones are characterized by a greater length than width and consist of a shaft (diaphysis) and two ends (epiphyses). They are primarily composed of compact bone, which provides strength, and contain a medullary cavity filled with bone marrow. Examples include the humerus and tibia, which play crucial roles in locomotion and support.
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Flat Bones
Flat bones are thin, flattened, and usually curved, providing extensive surface area for muscle attachment and protection for underlying organs. They are primarily composed of two layers of compact bone surrounding a layer of spongy bone. Examples include the sternum and ribs, which protect vital organs in the thoracic cavity.
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Short, Flat, and Irregular Bones