The skeletal framework serves a number of functions. These include:

Support

The skeleton provides a structural fame work for the body. It provides attachment points for muscles and tendons and support for soft tissues.

Movement

When skeletal muscles contract, they pull on bones to produce movement. The bones act as levers for the muscle to pull against and when muscles pull on bones, movement will occur at that joint.

Protection

The skeletal system also serves to protect the vital organs. For example the rib cage protects the heart and lungs, the vertebrae protect the spinal cord and the skull protects the brain.

Storage

The bones of the skeleton store several minerals especially calcium and phosphorous which contribute to the strength of the bone. Bones can then release these minerals into the blood stream and be distributed to other organs.

Blood Cell Production

At the centre of the long bones is a cavity containing bone marrow. Platelets, red and white blood cells are produced in the bone marrow and are transported via the circulatory system to other body tissues. This production process is called hemopoiesis.