Introduction
The human skeletal system is comprised of both fused and individual bones; supported and supplemented by ligaments, tendons, muscles and cartilage. The skeletons purpose is to protect and support the delicate internal organs and provide a framework that allows the body to stand upright and move. It also produces blood cells and stores minerals that our body needs to function effectively.
The skeletal system is a very important part of the human body. Without the skeleton humans would be immobile and even a small impact on the head or chest would cause serious injuries, to the internal organs.
The skeletal system is very complex. It contains many elements that work in union together in order for the body to function effectively. The skeletal system is made up of many different parts; from the cells and bone marrow to the bones, ligaments, tendons and cartilage. The skeleton also has joints that, with assistance from muscles, help the body to move around.
Anatomy & Physiology- Structure of bone
Bone consists of both living tissue and non-living substances. At its most basic level it is made up of cells, salts and minerals. Bone is also made up of two different kinds of bone tissue as well as marrow.
Cells- Bone is a dynamic tissue that is continually being built, broken down and rebuilt in a process known as bone remodelling. • Osteoblasts- These are cells responsible for the production of new bone tissue. They are thought to be derived from cells found to be associated with blood vessels. • Osteoclasts- These are multinucleated cells that break down bone. They are derived from monocytes which originate in bone marrow. They play an important role in liberating minerals and other molecules stored within the bone matrix. • Osteocytes- These are osteoblasts that have been embedded within the matrix. Osteocytes engage in metabolic exchange with the blood that flows through the bones.
Bone Marrow- There are
References: Sources Used Hest Health Education and Training Video 2011(www.youtube.com/watch?v=8d-RBe8JBVs) Human Skeleton Video by thamossomaht, 2007 (www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nr2318z1XKg&feature=plcp) Online Medical Dictionary 2010 (www.medterms.com) Module One- Terms & The skeleton, 2012, (lms.curtin.edu.au/webapps/portal) Joint by Wikipedia, 2012, (en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joint) Synovial Joint, 2012, (en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Synovial_joint) TRB Chemedica (UK) LTD 2011 (www.trbchemedica.co.uk/joint-pain/what-is-synovial-joint)