apophyses

Skeletal protrusion points

Apophyses is the plural of apophysis, a projection or outgrowth from a larger structure.

In anatomy, apophyses are bony protrusions where tendons and ligaments attach—the bumps you can feel at your elbow or heel.

In botany, the term describes swellings on plant structures, particularly the enlarged part of a pine cone scale.

The vertebral apophyses had not yet fused.

projection

outgrowth

Something developing from another

protuberanceProjection from a surface
protrusionPart extending outward
spurIncentive or heel device

ridge · prominence · process · tubercle · tuberosity · eminence · condyle · spinous · transverse

skeletal

vertebrae

Interlocking bones of spine

spineColumn of vertebrae
ossificationConversion to bone tissue
periosteumFibrous bone covering

cartilage · ligament · tendon · joint · articulation · suture · attachment · marrow · collagen · fracture

cellular

osteoblast

Bone-forming cell

osteocyteBone-maintaining cell in matrix
chondrocyteCell producing cartilage matrix
calcificationMineral hardening of tissue

mineralization · resorption · formation · differentiation · proliferation

development

growth plate

Cartilage enabling bone elongation

maturationProcess of becoming complete
fusionJoining into unity
closureSense of emotional resolution

avulsion · traction · adolescent · puberty · unfused · injury · overuse · athletic

Opposites

structural projection vs. indentation

apophysesfossae

Shallow anatomical indentations

cavities · depressions · foramina · sulci · grooves

part vs. whole

apophysesshaft

Narrow vertical passage

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