Module 1: The skeletal system

The Body in Action

1. The skeleton
2. Functions of the skeleton
3. Functions of the skeleton activity
4. Regions of the skeleton
5. Axial and appendicular activity
6. Bones of the anterior skeleton
   1. Bones of the posterior skeleton
7. Types of bone
8. Classification of bone activity
9. The main bones of the skeleton
10. Bones of the skeleton activity
11. Structure and function of the vertebral column activity

Regions of the skeleton

Regions of the skeleton

Click on the link below to find out more information on the regions of the skeleton.

The regions of the skeleton

These regions can in turn be arranged into two distinct parts known as the axial and appendicular skeleton, both of which have very different structures and functions within the body.

The axial skeleton forms the central axis of the body from which the limbs hang from. It consists of the 80 bones including the skull, sternum, ribs and vertebrae and its principle role is one of support for the body.

The appendicular skeleton is the parts hanging off the axial skeleton. It consists of the 126 bones that make up the pelvic and pectoral (shoulder) girdles, the arms and the legs. The principle role of the appendicular skeleton is one of movement, it provides a freely moveable frame which enables us to walk, run and jump.