Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
The shaft of the femur is the long, cylindrical part of the thigh bone that extends from the hip to the knee. It is primarily composed of compact bone, making it strong and capable of supporting weight.
Related terms
Compact bone: A dense layer of bone tissue that gives bones their smooth, white, and solid appearance, enabling them to be strong and rigid.
Femoral head: The rounded upper end of the femur that fits into the hip socket, facilitating movement at the hip joint.
Medullary cavity: The central cavity within the shaft of long bones where marrow is stored, involved in the production of blood cells