How are bones of a baby different than yours?

1. Bones are softer and more pliable

A newborn baby's bones are made mostly of cartilage, a flexible, rubbery tissue that gradually hardens into bone during childhood. This allows the baby to pass through the birth canal without causing injury to the mother.

2. Bones are smaller and lighter

A newborn baby's bones are much smaller and lighter than an adult's bones. This is because babies have less muscle mass and less overall body weight.

3. Bones have different proportions

A newborn baby's bones are proportionally different from an adult's bones. For example, the head of a newborn baby is much larger in proportion to the rest of the body than the head of an adult.

4. Bones are more susceptible to injury

A newborn baby's bones are more susceptible to injury because they are softer and more pliable. This is why it is important to handle newborns carefully and to avoid dropping them.

5. Bones grow and develop rapidly

A newborn baby's bones grow and develop rapidly during the first few years of life. This growth is stimulated by the growth hormone, somatotropin, which is produced by the pituitary gland.

By the time a child reaches adulthood, their bones will have reached their full size and density.