Functions of the Skeleton Flashcards
What is a long bone? e.g.?
Found in limbs, provide mobility and red blood cell production
Femur, humerus, tibia, radius, ulna
What is a short bone? e.g?
Small, light and strong (cube shaped). Provide stability and weight bearing.
Carpals, tarsals
What is a flat bone? e.g.?
Thin, flattened, slightly curved. Attachment for muscles and protection.
Sternum, ribs, cranium, pelvis, scapula
What is an irregular bone? e.g.?
Have a complex shape. Protect nervous tissue.
Vertebrae
What is a sesamoid bone? e.g.?
Have a smooth surface. Protection and reduces friction across a joint.
Patella, pisiform (wrist)
In what order do the regions of the vertebrae go?
- Cervical
- Thoracic
- Lumbar
- Sacrum
- Coccyx
How many vertebrae are in the cervical vertebrae?
7
How many vertebrae are in the thoracic vertebrae?
12
How many vertebrae are in the lumbar vertebrae?
5
How many vertebrae are in the sacrum?
5
How many vertebrae are in the coccyx?
4
What is kyphosis?
Excessive outward curvature of the thoracic region of the spine.
Otherwise known as a ‘hunchback’.
Causes: Poor posture and deformity in the vertebrae
What is scoliosis?
Abnormal curvature either left or right of the thoracic region of the spine.
S or C shaped spine.
Mainly found in children and is genetic.
What is a neutral spine?
Refers to good posture with the correct position of the three natural curves.
What are the functions of the skeleton?
Support, Protection, Attachment, Source of blood cell production, Storage of minerals, Leverage, Weight-bearing, Reducing friction across joints
Explain the support function of the skeleton?
The skeleton gives the body its shape and provide the supporting framework for soft tissues
Explain the protection function of the skeleton? e.g.?
Bones surround and protect vital tissues and organs.
Cranium protects brain (barrier absorbs impact, which prevents against concussion or brain damage)
Ribs + sternum protect the heart and lungs
Explain the attachment function of the skeleton?
Muscles attach to bones via tendons, enabling movement of the body. The muscle pulls on the bones to create leverage and movement occurring at a joint (where two bones meet)
Explain the blood cell production function of the skeleton?
Blood vessels supply the centre of your bones where bone marrow is stored.
Red and white blood cells are produced here.
RBC - Responsible for oxygen delivery
WBC - Fight infection and engulf pathogens, killing off disease.
Explain the mineral storage function of the skeleton?
Calcium and phosphorus stored in bones.
Calcium - Responsible for bone growth
Phosphorus - maintenance of bone health
Explain the leverage function of the skeleton?
Bones provide a lever system for movement
Explain the weight bearing function of the skeleton?
Strong bones are able to support your full body weight so you remain upright.
Explain the reducing friction function of the skeleton?
Synovial joints secrete fluids that prevent friction and injury.
