The parietal bone is a flat bone that forms part of the human skull. It is located at the top and sides of the head, and is paired, with one parietal bone on the left and one on the right. The parietal bones are important for protecting the brain and providing structural support for the head.
The parietal bone is made up of two parts: the squamous portion, which is the flattened, curved part that forms the top and sides of the head, and the basilar portion, which is a thin, triangular section that forms the base of the skull. The parietal bone also has several important landmarks, including the parietal eminence, which is a raised area on the squamous portion of the bone, and the parietal foramen, which is a small hole located on the inner surface of the bone.
The parietal bone is connected to several other bones in the skull, including the frontal bone, the temporal bone, and the occipital bone. Together, these bones form the cranial cavity, which encloses and protects the brain. The parietal bone is also connected to the skull by sutures, which are fibrous joints that allow the bones of the skull to move slightly.
In addition to its structural role, the parietal bone also has some important functions in the body. For example, it is involved in the process of thermoregulation, which helps to maintain a constant body temperature. The parietal bone is also involved in the sense of touch, as it contains a number of sensory receptors that help to detect changes in temperature, pressure, and pain.
Despite its importance, the parietal bone is relatively thin and fragile, and is susceptible to injury. Fractures of the parietal bone can occur due to a variety of causes, including falls, motor vehicle accidents, and sports-related injuries. In severe cases, a parietal bone fracture may require surgical intervention to repair.
In conclusion, the parietal bone is a vital part of the human skull, providing structural support and protection for the brain. It is connected to several other bones in the skull and has important functions in the body, including thermoregulation and the sense of touch. While it is relatively thin and fragile, the parietal bone is essential for the overall health and well-being of the body.