Long Bones

Long bones are found in the limbs and function as levers, they support the weight of the body and facilitate movement.

Some examples include:

1. In the arms

   • Humerus, ulna, radius

2. In the legs:

   • Femur, tibia, fibula

3. In the fingers:

   • Metacarpals and phalanges

Short Bones

Short bones are cube-like or round in shape. They provide stability and some limited movement.

Some examples include:

1. Carpals in the wrist

   • Scaphoid, lunate, triquetrum, hamate, pisiform, capitate, trapezoid, trapezium

2. Tarsals in the ankles

   • Calcaneous, talus, navicular, cuboid, lateral cuneiform, intermediate cuneiform and medial cuneiform

Flat Bones

Flat bones typically thin and curved and they can provide protection for internal organs.

Some examples include:

1. In the cranium

   • Frontal, parietal, temporal and occipital bones

2. In the face

   • Nasal, lacrimal and vomer

3. In the thorax

   • Sternum and ribs

4. In the pelvis

   • Ilium, ischium and pubis

Irregular Bones

Irregular bones have variable shapes and they function to protect internal organs.

Some examples include:

1. Bones of the vertebral column

2. In the cranium

   • sphenoid, ethmoid, zygomatic bones

Sesamoid Bones

Sesamoid bones are small bones formed after birth inside of tendons that run across joints. They protect the tendon from stresses and strains caused by compression forces at the joint.

Some examples include:

1. Patella

2. Pisiform bone of the carpals