Flat bones are a type of bone that, as their name suggests, are flat and thin in shape compared to other bones in the human body. Despite their simple appearance, flat bones fulfill crucial functions in the body and are distributed throughout the body. In this article, we will explore in detail what flat bones are, the different types that exist and their important functions in the human body.
What are bones flat?
Flat bones are a category of bones that have a flattened and thin structure compared to their length and width. These bones do not have the typical shape of a long or short bone, but are instead flat and plate-shaped. Despite their simpler appearance, flat bones perform vital functions in the human body and are distributed in different parts of the body.
Structure of flat bones
The structure of Flat bones are designed to fulfill their specific functions. These bones consist of two outer layers of compact bone tissue that enclose an inner layer of spongy bone tissue. This arrangement provides them with resistance and protection without adding too much weight to the body.
Location of flat bones in the human body
Flat bones are distributed throughout the human body, playing varied functions in different anatomical regions. Some examples of flat bones are:
- Scapula: it is a flat, triangular bone located in the upper part of the back, which articulates with the clavicle and the humerus.
- Skull bones: several bones of the skull, such as the parietal and frontal, are considered flat bones due to their flattened and protective shape.
- Ribs: the ribs are flat, curved bones that protect the thoracic organs such as the lungs and heart.
- Sternum: The sternum is a flat, sword-shaped bone found in the central part of the chest and protects the rib cage.
Types of flat bones
There are several types of flat bones in the human body, each with specific characteristics and functions. Below are some of the main types of flat bones:
Scapula
The scapula, also known as the scapula, is a flat, triangular bone located at the back and top of the thorax. This bone articulates with the clavicle and the humerus, forming part of the shoulder joint. The scapula performs important functions in the stabilization and movement of the shoulder, allowing the range of motion of the arm.
Skull bones
The bones of the skull, such as the parietal, frontal and occipital bones , are considered flat bones due to their flattened and protective shape. These bones form the bony structure that protects the brain and supports facial tissues. Additionally, the bones of the skull are interconnected by sutures that allow them to adapt to changes during brain growth and development.
Ribs
The ribs are flat, curved bones that surround the thoracic cavity and protect the vital organs found in this region, such as the lungs and heart. The ribs articulate with the vertebral column in the back and with the sternum in the front, forming the rib cage. These bones protect the internal organs and play a crucial role in breathing by expanding and contracting during lung ventilation.
Sternum
The sternum is a flat, sword-shaped bone that is It is located in the central part of the thorax, in front of the lungs and heart. The sternum protects the rib cage and serves as an attachment point for the ribs through cartilaginous joints. Additionally, the sternum is important in the biomechanics of breathing by participating in the movement of thoracic expansion and contraction during breathing.
Functions of flat bones
Flat bones perform various functions. functions in the human body, some of which are essential for maintaining posture, protecting vital organs and producing blood cells. The main functions of flat bones are detailed below:
Organ protection
One of the main roles of flat bones is to provide protection to vital organs in the body. For example, the ribs protect the lungs and heart in the thoracic cavity, while the bones of the skull protect the brain from external injury. This protective function is essential to maintain the integrity of organ systems and prevent life-threatening damage.
Structural support
Flat bones also provide structural support to various parts of the body. For example, the scapula and sternum contribute to the stability and mobility of the rib cage and shoulders, allowing for daily activities such as lifting objects, moving the arms, and breathing. Without the presence of flat bones, the human body would not be able to maintain its shape and perform basic functions of locomotion and support.
Production of blood cells
The bone tissue present in flat bones It participates in hematopoiesis, that is, the production of blood cells in the bone marrow. Red bone marrow, present in various flat bones and other bones in the body, is the site where red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets are generated that circulate through the bloodstream and perform vital functions in the body. This cell production process is essential to maintain an adequate balance in the blood system and guarantee the body's immune response.
Storage of minerals
In addition to its function in cell production blood, flat bones act as reservoirs of important minerals for the body, such as calcium and phosphorus. These minerals are essential to maintain bone structure, participate in metabolic processes and facilitate muscle contraction. When the body needs these minerals for vital functions, the bones release part of their reserves, ensuring an adequate balance in the body.
Conclusions
In summary, flat bones are a type of bone that, despite their apparently simple structure, fulfill essential functions in the human body. From protecting vital organs to producing blood cells and storing minerals, flat bones play crucial roles in maintaining health and proper functioning of the body. It is important to recognize the importance of these bones in human anatomy and understand how they contribute to the balance and integrity of the body as a whole.