The main functions of the skeletal system
The skeleton has six main functions:
- Movement – the skeleton allows movement of the body as a whole and its individual parts. The bones act as levers and also form joints that allow muscles to pull on them and produce joint movements.
- Support – the skeleton keeps the body upright and provides a framework for muscle and tissue attachment.
- Protection – the bones of the skeleton protect the internal organs and reduce the risk of injury on impact. For example, the cranium protects the brain, the ribs offer protection to the heart and lungs, the vertebrae protect the spinal cord and the pelvis offers protection to the sensitive reproductive organs.
- Production of blood cells – certain bones in the skeleton contain red bone marrow and the bone marrow produces red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. Examples of bones that contain marrow are the pelvis, sternum, vertebrae and clavicle.
- Mineral storage – the bones themselves are made of minerals and act as a mineral store for calcium and phosphorous, which can be given up if the body requires the minerals for other functions.
- Stuctural shape – the skeleton provides the human shape and determines the height of a person.
