The human skeletal system performs a number of key functions in the human body. The key functions of the human skeletal system are:
Support: Our bones provide the rigidity we need to function.
Protection: The rigidity of our bones allows them to protect our internal organs from damage for example the rib cage and the skull.
Movement: Without the strength of our bones we wouldn’t be able to move our muscles are anchored to our bones.
Storage: Our bones are a storehouse for fat and certain essential minerals.
Blood cell formation: Most of our blood components are made in the bones.
Mineral homeostasis: stores calcium and phosphorus--minerals are released into the blood when needed. …show more content…
The word appendicular is the adjective of the noun appendage, which itself means a part that is joined to something larger. Functionally it is involved in locomotion (lower limbs) of theaxial skeleton and manipulation of objects in the environment (upper limbs).
The appendicular skeleton forms during development from cartlilage, by the process ofendochondral ossification.
The appendicular skeleton is divided into six major regions:
1) Pectoral girdles (4 bones) - Left and right clavicle (2) and scapula (2).
2) Arms and forearms (6 bones) - Left and right humerus (2) (arm), ulna (2) and radius(2) (forearm).
3) Hands (54 bones) - Left and right carpals (16) (wrist), metacarpals (10), proximal phalanges (10), intermediate phalanges (8) and distal phalanges (10).
4) Pelvis (2 bones) - Left and right hip bone (2).
5) Thighs and legs (8 bones) - Left and right femur (2) (thigh), patella (2) (knee), tibia (2) and fibula (2) (leg).
6) Feet and ankles (52 bones) - Left and right tarsals (14) (ankle), metatarsals (10),proximal phalanges (10), intermediate phalanges (8) and distal phalanges