The skeletal system is referred to as the Internal framework of the body that gives the body support, shape and protection of the internal organs. Also it is referred to as the musculoskeletal system.
The skeletal systems is made up of bones, joints and connective tissues such as tendons and ligaments
Research has shown that the human skeleton makes up about 20% of a person’s body weight.
In Adults, the skeleton contains over 200 bones. While children’s skeletons usually contain more bones because some of them fuses together as they grow older.
There are also some differences in the male and female skeleton. In the male skeleton, it is usually longer and has a higher bone mass. In the female skeleton, on the other hand, has a wider pelvis to accommodate for conception and childbirth.
Basic Functions of the Skeletal System:
The Human skeleton plays a vital role in the body other than posture and shape, it also provides;
1. Support for movements: the skeleton gives the body stamina for movements. Joints, connective tissue and muscles all work together to allow mobility of the body.
2. Guard and house the internal organs: the skull protects the brain, while the thoracic cage protects the heart and lungs.
3. Stores nutrients and minerals: Bones stores and supply minerals to the body for instance, calcium, vitamin D. and phosphorus, are important for many bodily functions are stored in the bones. Also, adipose tissue , i.e the fat tissues, that can be used as energy is found in the bone marrow part.
4. Production of red blood cells: Because the bones contain bone marrow, the red, white blood cells and platelets are produced by soft bones in the bone marrow.
Parts of The Skeletal system
The skeletal system is wired in many different parts that unarguably work together to help the body with its movements.
The sole component of the skeletal system is the bones, hard structures that create the body’s framework the skeleton.
In adults, about 206 bones makes up the adult human skeleton. Each bone consist of three main layers which are:
- The Spongy bone: The core, inner layer of the bone is softer than compact bone. It has small holes called pores to store marrow.
- The Periosteum: The periosteum is a tough membrane that covers and protects the outside of the bone.
- The Compact bone: Below the periosteum, compact bone is white, hard, and smooth. It provides structural support and protection.
The other parts of the skeletal system are:
- The Cartilage: is smooth and flexible substance, that covers the tips of the bones where they meet. It also enables bones to move without friction (that is, rubbing against each other). When cartilage wears away, as in arthritis, it can be painful and cause movement problems.
- The Joints: A joint is where two or more bones in the body come together, for example, the shoulder joint. There are three different joint types. they are:
- Immovable joints: Immovable joints don’t let the bones move at all, like the joints between your skull bones.
- Partly movable joints: These joints allow limited movement. The joints in your rib cage are partly movable joints.
- Movable joints: Movable joints allow a wide range of motion. Your elbow, shoulder, and knee are movable joints.
- Ligaments: is a band of strong connective tissue which holds the bones together.
- Tendons: Tendons are bands of tissue that connect the ends of a muscle to your bone. It is different from the ligaments.
How to Care for your Skeletal System
The Skeleton is designed to provide the foundational support for all of the body’s movements, in addition to other important functions. To care for your skeletal system, you should;
- Ensure you drink plenty of water to help keep tissues healthy.
- Engage in regular exercise to strengthen your muscles, bones and joints.
- Stay at a healthy weight to avoid putting extra pressure on your bones and cartilage.
- Always wear a protective gear during physical activities or when participating in sport activities such as football and hockey. Additionally, wear protective gear when riding a bike to avoid bone fractures and other potentially serious injuries
- Always include plenty of vitamin D and calcium in your diet to keep bones strong. You could get a Vitamin D supplements or foods like milk, almond nut or yogurt.
