Skeletal, Muscular, and Integumentary Systems

Summary:

The human body’s skeletal system provides support and structure with bones, cartilage, and connective tissues, while joints allow for movement. Common bone disorders include osteoporosis, fractures, and arthritis. The muscular system, made up of muscles and tendons, provides movement and support for the body, and common muscle disorders include strains and sprains. The integumentary system, composed of the skin, hair, nails, and glands, protects the body from external factors and regulates body temperature. The systems are interconnected and work together to provide support, movement, and protection for the body.

Excerpt:

Skeletal, Muscular, and Integumentary Systems

Skeletal System:
The skeletal system is composed of bones, cartilage, and connective tissues. Bones are made up of minerals, such as calcium and phosphorus, and are living tissues that are constantly being broken down and rebuilt throughout a person’s life.

There are four types of bones: long bones (such as the femur), short bones (such as the bones in the wrist), flat bones (such as the skull bones), and irregular bones (such as the vertebrae).

Bones have several functions, including providing support and structure for the body, protecting internal organs, and playing a role in movement by providing attachment points for muscles.

Bone growth and development occur throughout childhood and adolescence, with bone mass peaks in early adulthood.

The bone structure includes the periosteum (a membrane that covers the outer surface of bones), bone marrow (which produces blood cells), and different types of bone tissue (such as compact and spongy bone).

Joints are where two or more bones meet, and there are several types of joints, including ball-and-socket joints (such as the hip), hinge joints (such as the knee), and pivot joints (such as the joint between the radius and ulna in the forearm).

Common bone disorders include osteoporosis (a condition in which bones become brittle and fragile), fractures (broken bones), and arthritis (inflammation of the joints).