The femur is the thigh bone, the longest, strongest, and heaviest bone in the human body. Located in the upper leg, between the hip and the knee, it plays a crucial role in locomotion and overall lower limb support.
Anatomy and Function
- Location: The femur is the only bone in the thigh. It connects the hip joint (acetabulum) to the knee joint. Britannica
- Structure: The head of the femur forms a ball-and-socket joint with the hip, held in place by ligaments. Britannica The shaft (diaphysis) is long and cylindrical. Fractures can occur anywhere along this shaft, requiring surgical intervention in most cases. OrthoIndy Blog Fractures near the knee are termed distal femur fractures. AAOS
- Function: The femur provides structural support, enabling weight-bearing and movement. It serves as an attachment point for numerous muscles, ligaments, and tendons crucial for walking, running, jumping, and other activities. WebMD
Common Conditions
- Femur Fractures: A broken femur is a serious injury requiring immediate medical attention, often treated with surgery (open reduction and internal fixation - ORIF) and physical therapy. Cleveland Clinic, Johns Hopkins Medicine These fractures can occur in the shaft or near the knee. OrthoInfo, Cleveland Clinic
- Other Conditions: While fractures are common, other conditions affecting the femur may exist.
In Summary
The femur, or thigh bone, is a critical component of the human skeletal system, providing structural support and facilitating movement. Its strength and length are essential for daily activities. Understanding its anatomy and potential issues contributes to overall health awareness.
