Bone Structure

Bone Structure: The Scaffold that Keeps You Standing

Few of us know the basics of bone structure. Even without our knowing it though, our bones are part of what keeps us up and functioning. Without our bones we would be unable to accomplish anything. It is therefore crucial to keep bones strong and healthy. The first step to doing that is to know the basic facts about the structure of bones.

Basic Function and Structure

Common sense will tell anyone that the bone structure is meant to provide form to the body and protection to the organs. We also know that the bones, along with the muscles, make movement possible. What some may not know though is that the bones have additional important functions. These include mineral storage, fat storage and blood cell production. The bones are able to accomplish all these through its amazing structure.

The first part that is crucial but not inherently part of bone structure is the outer membrane covering each bone. This is known as the periosteum and is responsible for providing sustenance to the bones. Below this membrane are the layers of hard tissue known as cortical bones. These are also known as compact or dense bones simply because there are few large spaces found throughout the surface. Around 80% of the bones are made of this tissue type.

Following the hard layer is the trabecular bone structure. This is also known as spongy or cancellous bone. The trabecular structure is best described as an inner network resembling the internal structure of the honeycomb. The spaces in between are where the cells of the blood are made. Despite being smaller in total amount than the cortical structure, the trabecular structure appears to occupy a wider scope because of the spaces in it.

Bone Structure

Substance of Bones and Bone Rebirth

What is the bone structure made of? Although the technical terms for the composition of bones is far more complicated, it is enough to know that the bones are made up of minerals. Like the skin, it contains collagen to keep the structure strong but at the same time elastic. The other minerals, such as calcium, work together to keep the bone firm.

Of all the minerals, it is calcium that is often linked to the bone structure. Since the body alone may not have enough stores of calcium, it is important to add more calcium into the system through one’s diet. Calcium can help prevent osteoporosis which can lead to bone fractures.

It is important to remember that the bone structure is a living and dynamic system. Despite its hard structure, its cells are just like other cells. Bone cells can die and regenerate. Simply put, old bone cells die and are flushed out and new cells grow to replace the old ones.

Although our bones seem to know how to take care of themselves, they also age like every other part of the human body. As a person grows older, changes in the bone structure may appear as a result of aging. The constant wear and tear for example leads to diminished cartilage in joints. Less calcium may also be present in various bone sections, making the elderly more vulnerable to fatal fractures.