Skeleton System

Introduction

• The human Skeleton system is an internal structure that provides support and strength to human body.
• At the birth, there are about 300 bones, but over period time, specifically at maturity, the number of bones is 206.

Classification of Bones

• Human Skeleton system broadly classified into −
  • Axial skeleton and
  • Appendicular skeleton
• Let’s discuss them in brief −

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Axial Skeleton

• With the total 80 bones, the axial skeleton consists of −
  • Vertebral column
  • Rib cage
  • Skull and other associated bones

Appendicular Skeleton

• With total 126 bones, the appendicular skeleton consists of −
  • Pectoral girdles
  • Upper limbs
  • Pelvic girdle
  • Pelvis
  • Lower limbs
• The image given below illustrates the names of the major bones of a human body.

Functions of Bones

• Following are the major functions of skeleton system −
  • It provides support to the body
  • It protects many parts of the body, e.g. the skull protects brain; the vertebrae protect spinal cord; the rib cage protects lungs; the spine protects heart, and the sternum protects blood vessels
  • The skeleton system helps in movement
  • The skeleton system helps in the production of blood cells
  • The skeleton system stores minerals
  • The skeleton system helps in endocrine regulation