Secondary ossification centres that develop at the site of insertion of a powerful muscle tendon, rather than at a pressure-bearing articular surface, are termed traction epiphyses. Which of the following is an example?

• A Greater trochanter of the femur ✓
• B Lower end of the femur
• C Head of the femur
• D Head of the humerus

Explanation

The greater trochanter ossifies at the attachment of muscles such as the gluteus medius and minimus, so it is classified as a traction epiphyses type centre, appearing around 4 years and fusing near 16 to 18 years. The femoral head, distal femur and humeral head are pressure epiphyses, forming at joints subjected to weight transmission or compression. Distinguishing pressure from traction epiphyses explains why some centres influence longitudinal growth and others do not.

Reference: BD Chaurasia's Human Anatomy, Volume 1: Upper Limb and Thorax, 9th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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