Bone Classifications
Long
Short
Flat
Irregular
Sesamoid
Long
- Cylinder-like shape, longer than it is wide
- Leverage
- Femur, tibia, fibula, metatarsals, humerus, ulna, radius, metacarpals, phalanges
Short
- Cube-like shape, approximately equal in length, width, and thickness
- Provide stability, support, while allowing for some motion
- Carpals, tarsals
Flat
- Thin and curved
- Points of attachment for muscles; protectors of internal organs
- Sternum, ribs, scapulae, cranial bones
Irregular
- Complex shape
- Protect internal organs
- Vertebrae, facial bones
Sesamoid
- Small and round; embedded in tendons
- Protect tendons from compressive forces
- Patellae