Functions of the skeleton.
The skeleton serves six major functions; support, movement, protection, production of blood cells, storage of minerals and endocrine regulation.
You also need to understand the five functions of the skeleton. These are:
- Protection – the cranium and ribs protect the brain and vital organs in the chest.
- Shape – gives shape to the body and makes you tall or short.
- Support – holds your vital organs in place when playing sport. The vertebral column holds the body upright.
- Produces blood cells – Bone marrow is the spongy tissue inside bones that produces blood cells. Bone marrow produces red blood cells, platelets, and white blood cells. Lymphocytes are produced in the marrow and play an important part in the body’s immune system
- Movement – muscles are attached to bones, which are jointed. When the muscles contract the bones move. Blood production – red blood cells (to carry oxygen) and white blood cells (to protect against infection) are produced in the bone marrow of some bones.
