LONG BONE STRUCTURE
Long bones provide the rigid framework of levers that make athletic movements possible.
Long bones may grow in diameter throughout the life of an individual by producing layers of
bone on the outside surface. Longitudinal growth is continuations of ossification of the diaphysis
toward the epiphysis. If the epiphyseal cartilage remains intact, longitudinal growth continues.
The epiphyseal cartilage ceases to grow at specific age and forms a bony union with the
diaphysis. At this time, longitudinal bone growth ends. ( around 20 year of age)
EPIPHYSIS
The epiphysis is the end of a lone bone and is made of cancellous bone
EPIPHYSEAL PLATE
This is a cartilaginous plate located between the epiphysis and the diaphysis and is where
growth takes place. With maturity, it fuses with the bone, and further longitudinal growth stops.
CANCELLOUS BONE
Also called spongy bone, the cancellous bone is generally found toward the epiphysis and
is arranged in the honeycombed or lattice fashion. Cancellous bone helps conserve weight and
absorb stress.
COMPACT BONE
Compact bone is the hard bone of the diaphysis and is deposited in layers. It is not
formed in a lattice, as is cancellous bone, and thus is denser and stronger and resists bending.
Compact bone may appear to be a solid unit; however, it contains canals that allow nerves, lymph
and blood vessels access to inner bone tissue.
MEDULLARY CAVITY
The medullary cavity is a hollow chamber surrounded by compact bone and contains
marrow that is important for red blood cell formation and fart sell storage.
ARTICULAR CARTILAGE
This is the substance that lines the terminal portion of the epiphysis where bone meets
bone, It reduces wear and provided for a smooth articulation.