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The Skeletal System is the framework of the body that supports and allows for movement and growth.

The average human has around 206 bones.  Between the bones is an extensive joint system and most bones are easily movable.

Bones

–  Bones themselves are quite diverse in size, length, and locations.
–  Bone are the outer protection of bone marrow.
–  The longest bone – femur
–  The shortest bone – stapes [ear]
–  Bones are not solid, they are light weight due to the spaces that are found between the tissues.

Function of Bones are as follows:

1.) Movement
2.) Protection
3.) Blood production
4.) Fat storage
5.) Protection
6.) Shape
7.) Mineral Storage
8.) others

Ligaments

–  Ligaments are “connective tissues” that hold the skeletal system together at individual joints.
–  Osteoarthritis may result following surgery or when surgery is not performed.
–  This is a wearing of the cartilage that leads to Arthritis.

Joints

–  Joints are the location of two bones that often are dependent on a central structure.
–  Joints allow movement, support, and structure to bones and ligaments.
–  Skeleton function is also protection of organs and organ systems.
–  Such as found under the ribcage which protects the heart, lungs, stomach and others.

Bone Marrow

–  Bone marrow is another important function. The production of red blood cells (RBCs) and white blood cells (WBCs) are essential.
–  Marrow is found within certain bones.
–  It is a tissue in the center of the bone or also referred to as the “hollow” area of the bone

There are two types of bone marrow:

1.)  Red Marrow
2.)  Yellow Marrow

*** At birth – all marrow is red and overtime [age] there is an increased amount of yellow that is formed.