The Skeletal System
Major Functions
The major functions of the skeletal system are to provide support and structure for the body, to protect internal organs, to provide the body with movement, to produce red and white blood cells, and to store minerals such as calcium and phosphorous. Diseases
Osteoporosis: Results in a loss of bone mass and density, and can lead to painful fractures Kyphosis: Commonly referred to as "Hunchback," it is a deformity of the upper portion of the spinal column that results in severe bending of the spine Rickets: The softening and weakening of bone tissue, caused by vitamin D deficency |
Major Organ
The bones are the major organ of the skeletal system. The axial skeleton consists of the skull, auditory ossicles, the hyoid bone, the vertebral column, and the thoracic cage. The appendicular skeleton includes bones of the arms and pectoral girdle, and bones of the legs and pelvic girdle. Fun Facts -The femur is the largest bone in the body -The stirrup is the smallest bone in the body, located in the inner ear -The face consists of 14 facial bones -The human hand has 27 bones -52 of the body's 206 bones are found in the feet |