Skeletal

Skeletal system is the body part that forms the supporting structure of an organism. It can include both the biological structure and the biomechanical structure of the body. The skeletal system serves many important functions; it provides the shape and form for our bodies in addition to supporting, protecting, allowing bodily movement, producing blood for the body, and storing minerals.

Structure

The human skeletal system can be divided into two types: the axial skeleton, which contains the bones along the center of the body, and the appendicular skeleton, which includes the bones of the arms and legs, along with the shoulder and hip girdles.

Axial skeleton

The axial skeleton consists of the bones in the head and trunk of a vertebrate. It includes the skull, the spine, the ribs and the sternum.

Appendicular skeleton

The appendicular skeleton includes the bones of the shoulder girdle, the upper limbs, the pelvic girdle, and the lower limbs.

Function

The skeletal system performs several vital functions, including support, movement, protection, production of blood cells, storage of minerals and endocrine regulation.

Support

The skeleton provides the framework which supports the body and maintains its shape.

Movement

The joints between bones permit movement, some allowing a wider range of movement than others.

Protection

The skeleton protects many vital organs.

Blood cell production

The skeleton is the site of haematopoiesis, the development of blood cells that takes place in the bone marrow.

Mineral storage

The skeleton can store calcium and is involved in calcium metabolism, and it also stores phosphorus.

Clinical significance

Diseases of the skeletal system are major issues in human health, and understanding these conditions is a key part of medical training. These can include conditions such as osteoporosis, arthritis, and cancer of the bones.

See also

• Bone
• Musculoskeletal system
• Human skeleton
• Osteology

References

Skeletal Resources
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