Components And Functions of Human Anatomy Skeletal System

The human anatomy skeletal system is a system made up of bones (both fused and individual) supported by associated cartilages, muscles and tendons. It is an essential scaffold that anchors body organs, protection of internal delicate body tissues and organs like the heart and the brain. The skeletal system of an adult human being contributes up to 40% of the total body mass. It is a major component of the body's hard parts.

Skeleton can therefore be defined as the hard framework of a human body around which other organs and body tissues are built or anchored. Newborn babies have more than 300 bones but as they grow up, bones fuse into singles masses, leaving adults with only 206 bones.

The human anatomy skeletal system comprises of three main parts as mentioned above. These are; the bones, the associated cartilages and the skeleton joints.Bones; this is the tough and rigid part that bears weights from your body organs. It forms a framework on which sensitive organs like the heart are anchored on. It is also responsible for the overall strength of the human body. A healthy human being has about 206 bones.Associated cartilages; this is a form of connective tissue which is also rigid and firm as bone. However, the biggest difference between the two is the mineralization factor with the bones being highly mineralized with calcium while cartilages are not.Skeletal joints; the human anatomy skeletal system is made mobile by a system of well-coordinated joints between two bones. A skeletal associated cartilage forms a bridge between the two movable bones.

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The human anatomy skeletal system is divided into two major parts: the appendicular and the axial skeleton systems.Axial skeleton system; it forms the axis of the body and is composed of 80 bones. This system consists of bones of the skull (head), thoracic (rib) cage and vertebral column. Skull forms the bony framework of the head, consists of 22 different bones of the cranium and bones of the face. The rib cage is composed of 12 bone pairs while the vertebrae column consists of 33 bones. Appendicular skeleton; it has 126 bones that include bones of the upper and lower limbs, pelvic and pectoral girdles. The major function of this skeletal system is to make locomotion possible and also protect major body organs. It is a skeleton of appendages consisting of shoulder girdle, pelvic girdle, skeleton of upper limb and lower limb.

The skeleton of a human being is necessary for the following reasons.Provide strength, support and body shape; the body system of bones, cartilages, tendons and muscles give your body the shape and support an upright body posture.Skeletal systems like the rib cage and the skull protect internal vital organs which are very delicate.Bones like the heads of tibia have hemopoeitic activity (white blood cell production).

The human anatomy skeletal system like any other part of a human body must be well maintained in order function very well. Diseases associated with the skeletal system should be prevented or treated as soon as possible using recommended means.