Long+Bones

=Long Bone=

Long bones are named for ther shape which is longer than wide. This type of bone is most abundant in the limbs on our body. Most long bones have similar general structure which can be seen in this picture. Long bone is made up of both compact and spongy bone. The long shaft of the long bone is called the diaphysis. The two knot shaped portion of the bone located at either end is called the epiphysis. The diaphysis is important because it is made of thick compact bone which provides support for the limbs in our body. The epiphyses whose exterior is made up of compact bone on the outside and spongy bone on the inside is located for in joints. The exterior of this portion of the long bone is covered with a thin layer of hylane cartilage which absorbs stress and cushions the joints during movement.