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Bone is an integral part of the structure of the body. It allows us to stand, move, and enjoy life. Bones can be diverse in their size, length, and locations. They make up an important aspect of the Skeleton System. Bones are the outer protection for the Bone Marrow.

Bones are not solid, they are light weight due to the spaces that are found between the tissues.

The longest bone – Femur

The shortest bone – Stapes [ear]

Function of Bones are as follows:

1.) Movement
2.) Protection
3.) Blood production
4.) Fat storage
5.) Protection
6.) Shape
7.) Mineral Storage
8.) others

Features of Bones:

1.)  Diaphysis  –  This is the main body of the bone  –  long region
2.)  Epiphysis  –  The ends of long bones
3.)  Metaphysis  –  The area of bone between the epiphysis and diaphysis
4.)  Epiphysis Plate  –  Growth plate  –  in-between epiphysis and metaphysis
5.)  Head  –  Articular end of bone
6.)  Neck  –  The are of bone between the shaft and head

Additional Features:

–  Periosteum – first layer of bone
–  Compact Bone – the hard outer layer of bone – causes the white appearance of bone.
–  Trabecular Bone – this is the inner aspect of the bone – is open and has a network like appearance

Types of Bones

1.) Long Bones  – increased compact bone and less bone marrow – bones of legs, arms, fingers, toes
2.) Short Bones  –  cubed shaped – thin layer of compact bone –  bones of wrist and ankle
3.) Flat Bones  –  2 layers of compact bone with spongy bone in middle –  bones of skull
4.) Irregular Bones  –  Has both compact bone and spongy bones, doesn’t fall in other categories – bones of spine and hips
5.) Sesamoid Bones  –  found in tendons that act to hold away from joint – bones of patella and pisiform

Osteoblasts

–  These cells are responsible for the formation of bone
–  Produced osteoid
–  Help reshape bone

Osteoclasts

–  These cells cause bone breakdown or resorption