The skeletal system is the body system that serves as a support framework, protects vital organs, works with muscles to produce movement, and produces blood cells.

Functions of Skeletal System Support – gives body shape, structure enables you to stand erect or body would collapse Protection – protects internal organs and fragile body tissue Movement – bone provide the structure for muscle to attach so that our bodies are able to move

Bones At birth you have about 300 bones, adults have about 206 bones Bone is the structural material of the skeletal system Layers of bone Periosteum = thin tissue that covers bone and contains nerves and blood vessels Compact bone = outer layer, strong and dense Spongy bone = lighter, slightly flexible Bone marrow = inner layer where new red and white blood cells are constantly being produced

Joints Joint is the point where two bones meet Hinge joint – bend and straighten (elbow, knee) Ball and socket joint – twisting, turning movement (shoulder, hip) 360 degrees Pivot joint – turns side to side (neck) Ligament – fiber that connects bones together

Skeletal Structure – Middle of Body Cranium/Skull – protects brain and eyes Spine/Backbone – vertebrae with cartilage in between each, protects spinal cord Sternum/Breastbone – linked to ribcage, middle bone, protects chest Rib cage – 12 pairs of ribs, protects heart and lungs Hip bones - help us stand upright and support much of the body’s weight

Skeletal Structure – Upper Limbs Clavicle (collarbone) Scapula (shoulder blade) Humerus – long bone of upper arm, extending from the shoulder to the elbow Radius – shorter of the 2 lower arm bones, located on the inside of the arm (thumb side) Ulna – bone extending from the elbow to wrist, located on the outside of arm (opposite of thumb)

Skeletal Structure – Lower Limbs Femur - thigh bone, extends from hip joint to knee, longest bone in body Patella – knee cap Tibia - inside bone of the lower leg, strongest bone in the body Fibula – outside bone of the lower leg, thinner of the 2 lower leg bones, helps control movement of ankle (shin bone)

Upper and Lower Limbs

Skeletal Structure – Wrist and Hand Carpals – wrist bones Metacarpals - palm Phalanges – fingers Each hand – 27 bones

Skeletal Structure – Ankle and Foot Each foot has 26 bones Tarsals – ankle bones Metatarsals - main part of foot, instep Phalanges - toes

Keep your Skeletal System Healthy Choose foods rich in calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D. Exercise to strengthen joints. Wear protective equipment and properly-fitting, well-cushioned shoes and warm up before exercising. Sit, stand and walk with correct posture. Participate in screening for scoliosis

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