Skeletons 101

The Skeletal System: Functions, Anatomy, Conditions, and Care

• The skeletal system provides support and shape to the body, allows movement, produces blood cells, protects organs, and stores minerals.
• It is also known as the musculoskeletal system and consists of bones, cartilage, tendons, and ligaments.
• The periosteum, compact bone, and spongy bone are the three main layers of bones.
• There are 206 bones in an adult human skeleton.
• Cartilage covers the tips of bones and enables them to move without friction.
• Joints allow bones to come together and can be immovable, partly movable, or movable.
• Ligaments hold bones together, while tendons connect muscles to bones.
• Common conditions that affect the skeletal system include arthritis, fractures, osteosarcoma, osteoporosis, and sprains.
• To keep the skeletal system healthy, it is important to consume enough vitamin D and calcium, exercise regularly, stay at a healthy weight, and wear protective gear during contact sports.
• Fractures can be classified as stable (closed), stress, or open (compound).
• Treatment for a broken bone typically involves immobilization in a cast or brace for three to eight weeks, depending on severity.
• Broken bones can take several weeks or months to heal fully.