Overview of the Skeletal System
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The network of bones, connected by ligaments, joints, and cartilage (to name a few), is known as the skeletal system. The skeletal system is much more than our tibia or cranium; for example, our teeth fall under the skeletal system as they are made up of enamel and dentin.
The human skeleton consists of three main parts: bones, ligaments, and cartilage. Our skeleton begins to develop as we develop in our mother's womb. Ligaments are bands of fibrous connective tissue that hold bones together, keeping them in place. Cartilage, made of tough protein fibers, is a type of dense connective tissue, providing a smooth surface for the movement of bones at joints.
While the skeletal system allows us to stand upright, another vital part of the skeletal system are joints. A joint is where bones meet, and through the help of muscles, our body is able to move with minimal force. There are three types of joints: immovable, partly movable, and movable joints. Immovable joints allow no movement, such as the skull. Partly movable joints allow our body to move, but not too much. An example of a partly movable joint would be the ribs, as we can twist and bend with them, but not to the point where it's completely free. Movable joints call for the most movement and our the most common type of joints found in our body, and are also connected by ligaments. Movable joints are also known as synovial joints because the space between the bones is filled with a thick fluid, known as synovial fluid.
Movable joints can be further broken down into two categories. The ball-and-socket joint, found in the shoulder, allows the bone to move in several directions, offering the greatest range of motion. Meanwhile, the hinge joint, located at the knee, allow movement, but only so far.
Growth and Development |