Human Skeletal System

The human skeleton is comprised of the total set of bones that provide the human body a multifunctional structure. The adult human skeletal system contains 206 bones! It also consists of the joints, cartilage, tendons and ligaments that connect them.

The main functions of the skeletal system are:

• Support of the body
• Locomotion
• Provide protection for internal organs
• Act as a site for the production of blood cells and the storage of minerals, particularly calcium
• Growth and development

The human skeletal system is divided into two principal subdivisions: the axial and appendicular skeleton.

The axial skeleton forms the central axis of the human body and is composed of 80 bones that include the bones of the skull, the ossicles of the middle ear, the hyoid bone of the throat, the vertebral column, and the thoracic cage. It also provides protection and support for the brain, spinal cord and vital organs, in addition to providing a surface for muscles to attach to.

The appendicular skeleton consists of 126 bones that include both the upper and lower limbs and bones of the shoulders and pelvis.

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