Irregular bones: Irregular bones are irregular in size and shape and are usually quite compact. They include the bones in the vertebral column, the carpal bones in the hands, tarsal bones in the feet, and the patella (kneecap).

Tarsal bones are a group of seven bones forming the ankle of the foot. They are organized into three rows in the foot. Carpal bones are a cluster of eight bones forming the wrist of the hand. They are organized into two rows in the hand. So, this is the summary of the difference between tarsal and carpal bones.

Short bones, such as the carpals, are approximately equal in length, width, and thickness. Flat bones are thin, but are often curved, such as the ribs. Irregular bones such as those of the face have no characteristic shape. Sesamoid bones, such as the patellae, are small and round, and are located in tendons.

Irregular Bones. They consist of cancellous tissue enclosed within a thin layer of compact bone. The irregular bones are: the vertebræ, sacrum, coccyx, temporal, sphenoid, ethmoid, zygomatic, maxilla, mandible, palatine, inferior nasal concha, and hyoid.

Bones provide support for our bodies and help form our shape. Although they’re very light, bones are strong enough to support our entire weight. Bones also protect the body’s organs. The skull protects the brain and forms the shape of the face.

Bones have many functions. They support the body structurally, protect our vital organs, and allow us to move. Also, they provide an environment for bone marrow, where the blood cells are created, and they act as a storage area for minerals, particularly calcium.

Characteristics of Fibrous Joints Fibrous joints are connected by dense connective tissue consisting mainly of collagen. These joints are also called fixed or immovable joints because they do not move. Fibrous joints have no joint cavity and are connected via fibrous connective tissue.