Key Terms
DIAPHYSIS
The tubular shaft running between the two ends. Walls are compact bone.
EPIPHYSIS (plural
Epiphyses): the wide section at each end. Filled with spongy bone and red marrow.
METAPHYSIS
Where the epiphysis meets the diaphysis. Contains the epiphyseal plate (growth plate) in growing bones.
PERIOSTEUM
Fibrous membrane covering the outer bone surface. Contains blood vessels, nerves, and lymphatic vessels.
ENDOSTEUM
Delicate membrane lining the medullary cavity. Site of bone growth, repair, and remodeling.
ARTICULAR CARTILAGE
Thin cartilage covering epiphyses at joints. Reduces friction; absorbs shock.
Structural unit
The osteon (Haversian system)
Bones formed this way
Long bones, bones at the base of the skull.
NOTE
Skull and clavicles are not fully ossified at birth. This allows deformation during delivery.
Closed reduction
Manual repositioning without surgery. Used for simpler fractures.
Normal blood calcium level
Approximately 10 mg/dL.
Treatments
Bisphosphonates (reduce osteoclast activity), calcitonin, estrogen (females only), fall prevention.