Structure of the skeleton
Regions of the skeleton
Click on the link below to find out more information on 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. It consists of the 80 bones of the skull, sternum, ribs and vertebrae and its principle role is one of support for the body.
The appendicular skeleton 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.
