Sesamoid Bone (Noun)
Meaning
Any of several small round bones formed in a tendon where it passes over a joint.
Classification
Nouns denoting body parts.
Examples
- The kneecap, or patella, is a sesamoid bone that helps to increase the mechanical advantage of the surrounding muscles.
- A sesamoid bone embedded in the tendon just below the base of the big toe helps with movement.
- The patella is a sesamoid bone that can sometimes become dislocated.
- Sesamoid bones can become irritated and cause tenderness and swelling in and around the affected joint.
- The patella is actually the largest of about 85 sesamoid bones in the human body and plays a crucial role in the structure and movement of the knee.