Skeletal: Responses of the skeletal system after exercise

Question 1

Production of synovial fluid

Answer 1

An acute response, when we exercise, more synovial fluid is released into the
synovial joint.

This makes the joint become more lubricated.

It also helps to protect the bones during the increased demands that exercise
puts on the skeleton and joint.

The fluid also becomes less viscous and the range of movement at the joint
will increase.

The release of synovial fluid from the synovial membrane will also provide
increased nutrients to the articular cartilage.

Question 1

Increase in mineral uptake

Answer 1

Another acute response to exercise, is the increased uptake of minerals in the
bone. Just as a muscle becomes stronger the more you use it, a bone becomes
stronger and denser.

When we perform weight bearing activities, the body absorbs minerals such as
calcium, which increases bone mineral density.

This is important for sports that apply stress and force (weight bearing) to the
bones. They become strong enough to cope with these demands.

Question 2

Adaptations: Increase in ligament strength
Chronic Response to exercise

Answer 2

Ligaments attach bone to bone within a synovial joint.

Over time, ligaments become more pliable. Increasing flexibility and range of
movement at a joint.

It also means they are less likely to become sprained (when a ligament tears
due to overstretching).