What is the Difference Between Condyle and Epicondyle?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚The main difference between a condyle and an epicondyle lies in their structure and function within the joints of the human body. Here are the key differences:
- Condyle: A condyle is a smooth, round surface area at the end of a bone that forms part of a joint. Condyles are found in various joints, such as the knee joint (hinge joint), formed by the femoral lateral and medial condyles, and the tibial lateral and medial condyles. The condyle provides structural support to the overlying hyaline cartilage and bears the brunt of the force exerted from the joint.
- Epicondyle: An epicondyle is a rounded protuberance at the end of a bone, serving as a place of attachment for ligaments, tendons, and muscles. Epicondyles provide sites of muscle and connective tissue attachment to bones, providing support to the musculoskeletal system. Examples include the femoral medial and lateral epicondyles and humeral medial and lateral epicondyles.
In summary, condyles are smooth, round surfaces at the end of bones that form joints, while epicondyles are rounded protrusions that serve as attachment sites for muscles, ligaments, and tendons.
On this pageWhat is the Difference Between Condyle and Epicondyle? Comparative Table: Condyle vs Epicondyle
Comparative Table: Condyle vs Epicondyle
The main difference between a condyle and an epicondyle lies in their size and function. Here is a table comparing the two:
Feature | Condyle | Epicondyle |
---|---|---|
Definition | A condyle is a large, rounded surface at the end of a bone that forms part of a joint. | An epicondyle is a smaller bony prominence located near the end of a bone, on or above a condyle. |
Size | Condyles are larger compared to epicondyles. | Epicondyles are smaller compared to condyles. |
Function | Condyles provide structural support to the overlying hyaline cartilage and bear the brunt of the force exerted from the joint. | Epicondyles serve mainly as areas for muscle or ligament attachment. |
Examples | The lateral condyle of the femur is a prominent example, which is easily palpable at the knee. | The medial epicondyle of the humerus is an example. |
In summary, condyles are the rounded articular surfaces at the end of a bone, while epicondyles are smaller bony prominences located near the end of a bone, often on or above a condyle.
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