Human Anatomy Skeleton Flashcards

Major Bones of the Human Skeleton

• Cranium: Protects the brain, composed of several fused bones.
• Cervical Vertebrae: The first seven vertebrae in the neck, supporting the skull and facilitating head movement.
• Clavicle: Also known as the collarbone, connects the arm to the body, located between the sternum and scapula.
• Scapula: Commonly referred to as the shoulder blade, providing attachment for arm muscles.
• Humerus: The long bone of the upper arm, connecting the shoulder to the elbow.

Rib Cage and Upper Body

• Sternum: The breastbone located in the center of the chest, connected to the ribs via cartilage.
• Ribs: Twelve pairs of curved bones forming the rib cage, protecting the thoracic cavity and organs.

Spine and Pelvic Region

• Lumbar Vertebrae: Five vertebrae in the lower back, larger and stronger than cervical or thoracic vertebrae for weight-bearing.
• Ilium: The largest bone of the pelvis, contributing to the hip structure and connection to the spine.
• Sacrum: A triangular bone at the base of the vertebral column, composed of fused vertebrae, connecting the spine to the hip bones.
• Coccyx: Also known as the tailbone, composed of three to five fused vertebrae at the base of the sacrum.

Forearm and Hand

• Ulna: One of two bones in the forearm, located on the side opposite the thumb, plays a crucial role in the elbow joint.
• Radius: The other forearm bone, located on the same side as the thumb, allows for wrist rotation.
• Carpal Bones: Eight small bones in the wrist allowing flexibility and movement.
• Metacarpals: Five long bones in the hand, connecting the fingers to the wrist.
• Phalanges (fingers): Fourteen small bones making up the fingers, each finger has three phalanges except the thumb, which has two.

Lower Limb Anatomy

• Femur: The thigh bone and longest bone in the body, connects the hip to the knee.
• Patella: Also known as the kneecap, protects the knee joint and aids leg movement.
• Tibia: The larger and stronger bone of the lower leg, bearing weight and connecting the knee to the ankle.
• Fibula: A thinner bone located alongside the tibia in the lower leg, providing stability.
• Tarsal Bones: Seven bones in the ankle allowing for various movements and support.
• Metatarsals: Five long bones in the foot, connecting the toes to the ankle.
• Phalanges (toes): Fourteen bones forming the toes, similar structure to finger phalanges.