Femur Bone Function

The femur supports the entire body during movement.

The femur, which is part of the upper thigh, is the largest bone in the human body. It performs various functions that help maintain mobility.

Identification

The femur is attached to the pelvis and knee cap, which makes it the longest bone in the body. The National Space Biomedical Research Institute states the average adult femur measures 20 inches and is more than 1 inch in width.

Stability

The femur connects to the pelvis socket, which creates the hip joint. This joint provides the entire body with stability, especially during moments of intense movement.

Knee Movement

The front of the femur is shaped to support the patella, or kneecap. When a leg is extended, the grooves in the front of the femur allow the patella to safely move upward. When the knee is bent, the groove allows the patella to move downward. The movement of the patella supported by the femur enables efficiency of the leg muscles, according to Health Line.

References

• National Space Biomedical Research Institute: Bone Function
• Health Line: Understanding Leg Anatomy and Function