1.1.a. The structure and function of the skeletal system GapFill

The skeletal system plays several important roles in the functioning of the human body. The structure of the human skeleton provides support for the body, which would otherwise struggle to remain upright during routine daily activity. The ability to remain upright leads to a further function of the skeleton in maintaining   imagepostureperformanceprotection.

Movement is enabled when working alongside the  cardiovasculargasfitnessmuscular system. Bones act as levers and provide a location for   bursaemusclesbonesblood cells to attach via tendons, causing movement at the  long bonecartilagejoint capsulesynovial joint upon contraction. Different joint types allow for a range of movements, with  hingeaerobicball and socketelbow joints providing a greater range than  hingeball and socketaerobicrotational joints.

The skeletal system is responsible for the   protectionshapestoragehealth of key minerals (e.g. calcium and phosphorus), which have many important roles in the healthy functioning of the human body.

Skeletal structures, such as the cranium surrounding the brain and the  humerusribstalusulna surrounding the heart and lungs, play an important role in the  protectionhealthproductionposture of vital organs. Bone marrow found in long bones, such as the humerus in the upper arm and the  tarsalclaviclefemurtibia in the thigh, is responsible for the  protectionhealthshapeproduction of blood cells – specifically,  whitereddarkblue blood cells, which carry oxygen to the exercising muscles during aerobic respiration, and  pathogenicredpalewhite blood cells for the immune response to infection and disease.