Skeletal System

Purpose Support framework Protects vital

organs Works with

muscles to produce movement

Produces blood cells

Facts

Your skeleton is made up of 206 bones. Bones start out as flexible cartilage but within a few

weeks begin to develop into hard deposits of calcium (through a process called ossification.)

It takes roughly 20 years for the bone process to be completely hardened.

Bones are made up of types of material: compact and spongy (porous) bone.

Bone marrow forms red and white blood cells.

Bone (same function as the system.)

structural materialOuter “shell” is hard Inner portion is porous/spongy

Bone marrow Produces blood

cells soft tissue in

center area of most bones

Cartilage Acts as a cushion

where bones meet Soft, connective

tissue on the end of some bones Vertebrae Knee and hip joints End of your nose

Ligament Tough fiber that

connects bones together

Sprained ankles and knees are caused by stretched or torn ligaments

Joint Point where two

bones meet Ball and socket: hip

and shoulder Hinge: fingers,

elbows, and knees Pivot: Neck Gliding: wrist

Osteoporosis A condition in which the bones become thin and

brittle Break more easily Take longer to heal

Why should teens care?

After age 30 you stop adding bone If you don’t have enough calcium in

your diet, your body takes it from your bones, leading to bone loss

You CANNOT make it up later; this is your ONE chance

Build up your savings account now!

Problems:

Fractures: a break in a bone

Dislocation: a bone being pushed out of joint

Sprain: stretching or twisting of a ligament

Osteoarthritis: a breakdown of cartilage caused by wear and tear

Scoliosis: a sideways curvature of the spine

Diet and Osteoporosis

Calcium and phosphorous form the hard substance in bone

Foods high in calcium: milk and milk products, and dark green leafy vegetables

Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium Our bodies make vitamin from sun exposure Most milk and milk products in the US are

fortified with Vitamin D Teens need 4 servings of calcium rich

foods every day

Physical activity and Osteoporosis

Weight-bearing physical activity 2 to 3 times per week sends signals to your body to make the

bones stronger

Physical activity 60 minutes every day Stronger muscles protect joints

Seven ways to keep your skeletal system healthy

1. Eat food and beverages rich in calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D

2. Wear protective equipment when playing sports

3. Exercise regularly to strengthen joints and ligaments

4. Sit, stand, and walk with correct posture

5. Warm up before participating in physical activity

6. Get screened for scoliosis7. Wear properly fitting, well-cushioned

shoes