Skeleton

Header: Types of Bones

The human skeleton consists of 206 bones which can be categorised into long bones, short bones, flat bones, and irregular bones.
Long bones like femur (thigh bone) and humerus (upper arm bone) are important for movement and provide strength to the body.
Short bones, such as those found in the wrist and ankle, are as wide as they are long and provide support and stability.
Flat bones like the skull, sternum, ribs, and scapulae provide protection to vital organs and a surface for muscle attachment.
Irregular bones include vertebrae and some facial bones; they serve specific functions in the body and do not fit into the other bone categories.

Header: Bone Structure

Bones are composed of both compact and spongy bone tissue that offer strength and flexibility.
The outer layer of the bone is made up of tough, dense compact bone. It supports the body’s weight and resists the forces placed upon it during movement.
Inside the bone is spongy bone tissue, which has a honeycomb-like structure that reduces the weight of the bone while maintaining strength. It also contains bone marrow, where blood cells are produced.

Header: Bone Marrow and Blood Production

Bone marrow is the soft, spongy tissue found in the centre of many bones.
It includes red bone marrow, which creates red and white blood cells, and yellow bone marrow that stores fat.
Blood cell production, known as haematopoiesis, takes place in the red bone marrow.

Header: Joints and Movement

Where bones connect, they form joints, which allow a range of movements in different directions.
There are three main types of joints: hinge joints (e.g. elbows and knees), ball-and-socket joints (e.g. shoulders and hips), and pivot joints (e.g. neck).
Each joint plays a specific role in enabling body movements, contributing to the body’s overall flexibility and function.

Header: Bone Health and Growth

The process of bone formation, growth, and remodelling is a lifelong process called ossification.
To maintain healthy bones, nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, phosphorus and magnesium are essential.
Regular physical activity, especially weight-bearing exercises, enhances bone health and reduces the risk of bone-related health problems. The skeleton adapts to increased load by becoming stronger.