Skeletal System

The human skeletal system is a complex framework of bones, cartilages, and ligaments that provides structure, support, and protection to the body. Below is an overview of its components, including names, locations, and functions:

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Key Functions of the Skeletal System

1. Support: Provides a framework for the body and supports soft tissues.
2. Protection: Shields vital organs (e.g., skull protects the brain, ribcage protects the heart and lungs).
3. Movement: Works with muscles to facilitate body movement.
4. Mineral Storage: Stores essential minerals such as calcium and phosphorus.
5. Blood Cell Production: Produces blood cells in the bone marrow.
6. Energy Storage: Stores fat in the yellow bone marrow.

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Divisions of the Skeletal System

 The skeletal system is divided into two main parts:

1. Axial Skeleton: Central core of the body.
2. Appendicular Skeleton: Limbs and girdles.

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Axial Skeleton (80 Bones)

1. Skull (22 Bones)

• Location: Head
• Function: Protects the brain; supports the face.
• Bones:
  • Cranial Bones (8): Frontal, Parietal (2), Temporal (2), Occipital, Sphenoid, Ethmoid.
  • Facial Bones (14): Maxilla (2), Zygomatic (2), Nasal (2), Mandible, Lacrimal (2), Palatine (2), Vomer, Inferior Nasal Concha (2).

2. Vertebral Column (26 Bones)

• Location: Extends from the base of the skull to the pelvis.
• Function: Protects the spinal cord; supports the head and torso.
• Regions:
  • Cervical (7)
  • Thoracic (12)
  • Lumbar (5)
  • Sacrum (1; fused)
  • Coccyx (1; fused)

3. Rib Cage (25 Bones)

• Location: Chest
• Function: Protects the heart and lungs; aids in breathing.
• Bones:
  • Ribs (12 pairs; 24 bones)
  • Sternum (1)

4. Hyoid Bone (1 Bone)

• Location: Neck (supports the tongue)
• Function: Assists in swallowing and speech.

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Appendicular Skeleton (126 Bones)

1. Pectoral Girdle (4 Bones)

• Location: Shoulders
• Function: Attaches arms to the body.
• Bones: Clavicle (2), Scapula (2)

2. Upper Limbs (60 Bones)

• Location: Arms and hands
• Function: Facilitates movement and manipulation.
• Bones:
  • Humerus (2)
  • Radius (2)
  • Ulna (2)
  • Carpals (16)
  • Metacarpals (10)
  • Phalanges (28)

3. Pelvic Girdle (2 Bones)

• Location: Hips
• Function: Supports the weight of the body and connects to the lower limbs.
• Bones: Hip Bones (Ilium, Ischium, Pubis)

4. Lower Limbs (60 Bones)

• Location: Legs and feet
• Function: Provides support and mobility.
• Bones:
  • Femur (2)
  • Tibia (2)
  • Fibula (2)
  • Patella (2)
  • Tarsals (14)
  • Metatarsals (10)
  • Phalanges (28)

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Cartilage and Ligaments

• Cartilage:
  • Location: Joints, ear, nose, trachea.
  • Function: Provides flexibility and reduces friction.
• Ligaments:
  • Location: Connects bones at joints.
  • Function: Stabilizes and strengthens joints.

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Bone Types by Shape

1. Long Bones: Found in arms and legs (e.g., femur, humerus).
2. Short Bones: Found in wrists and ankles (e.g., carpals, tarsals).
3. Flat Bones: Protect organs (e.g., skull, sternum).
4. Irregular Bones: Unique shapes (e.g., vertebrae, pelvis).
5. Sesamoid Bones: Embedded in tendons (e.g., patella).

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The skeletal system works in tandem with other systems like the muscular system for movement and the circulatory system for blood cell production. Its health is essential for overall well-being, emphasizing the importance of proper nutrition, exercise, and posture.

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Within our form, a scaffold strong,
Two hundred six bones, where we belong.
From the crown of the skull to the tips of the toes,
A symphony of strength, each bone knows.

Skull, the guardian of thoughts so bright,
Protects the brain, our guiding light.
The mandible moves to help us speak,
While the maxilla forms our rosy cheek.

The vertebrae, stacked in a graceful line,
Keeps us upright, a design divine.
Seven in the neck, cervical's name,
Twelve thoracic, mid-back frame.

The clavicle and scapula, shoulder's brace,
Humerus extends, an arm to embrace.
Radius and ulna, a forearm pair,
Wrist and fingers, intricate and rare.

In the chest, the sternum stands so bold,
Ribs encircle, a story told.
Protecting heart and lungs within,
A cage of life, where breaths begin.

The pelvis cradles organs deep,
Hips that sway or steps that leap.
Femur, the longest, supports the thigh,
While patella guards the knee nearby.

Tibia and fibula, a sturdy pair,
Anchor the legs with balanced care.
Ankles, tarsals, metatarsals too,
Toes for movement, tried and true.

From tiny stapes in the ear, profound,
To the mighty femur, where strength is found.
Bones united, a masterpiece,
A marvel of nature that shall never cease.

So honor this framework, silent yet strong,
Two hundred six bones, a lifelong song.