Final answer:
The periosteum is a fibrous membrane covering the outer surface of a typical long bone, containing blood vessels and nerves that nourish compact bone, while also providing an attachment for tendons and ligaments. It's vital for bone growth, repair, and overall integrity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The periosteum is a covering on the outer surface of a typical long bone that plays a critical role in bone health and functionality. It is a fibrous membrane that contains blood vessels, nerves, and lymphatic vessels which are essential for the nourishment of compact bone. The periosteum also serves as an attachment point for tendons and ligaments, contributing to the stability and movement of joints. This fibrous layer covers almost the entire outer surface of the bone except where the epiphyses form joints, as these areas are covered with articular cartilage. The periosteum not only supports bone repair and growth but also assists in providing structural integrity.
The periosteum is highly significant within the skeletal system because it houses osteoblasts and osteoclasts, cells responsible for bone formation and resorption, respectively. Through these cell types, the periosteum is actively involved in bone growth, repair, and remodeling, aiding in the skeletal system's dynamic ability to adjust to physical stresses and injuries.