Anatomy Unveiled: The Human Skeletal System
by Yuvi K - December 16, 2023
Unveiling the Human Skeleton: An Overview of the Complex Structure
The human skeleton has a complex structure with some amazing functions, all of which support the body and keep us upright and mobile. Taking a closer look at the anatomy and engineering of the skeletal system can lead to a new appreciation for the complexity and the strength of the human body.
Composition of the Skeletal System
The human skeletal system is composed of 206 individual bones—over the course of a person’s life, some bones fuse together while others do not. The skeleton is divided into two distinct parts: the axial skeleton and the appendicular skeleton.
The axial skeleton is composed of the bones and associated structures that define the shape and form of the main body. It is composed of the skull (sarir ka kulha: सर्दर का खूला), vertebral column (Hadjoon ka silsila: हड्जून का सिलसिला), ribs (kano ka seena: कनों का सीना), and sternum (chhati ke dahinee oor: छत्ती के दाहिनी ऊर्द). These bones provide protection to the brain, spine, and vital organs.
The appendicular skeleton is composed of the bones connected to the axial skeleton that enable us to move. It includes the shoulder girdle (sir ka bhesh: सिर का भेश), arms (bazo: बज़ों), forearms (tarazoo: तरह्जू), hands (haato: हातो), pelvic girdle (jangh ka bhesh: जंघ का भेश), legs (pair: पैर) forelegs (tarazoo: तरह्जू), and feet (pair: पैर).
Joints
The skeletal system is held together by joints (sandhano: टॉंटी). There are three types of joints in the human body: Synovial, Fibrous, and Cartilaginous. Synovial joints are those that allow for the greatest range of movement, such as the hinges of the elbow and knee (ghurli/ ghutli: घुड़ली/घुटली) joints and the ball-and-socket joints of the shoulder and hip (chipkao: चिपकाओ). Fibrous joints are less mobile and are designed to hold bones together firmly; bones that form the skull are connected in this way. Cartilaginous joints provide some flexibility, but do not allow for extensive movement; these joints are found in the spine (Ha:हा).
The joints are further strengthened by ligaments (koorhi: कूर्ही), which are bands of connective tissue that reach from one bone to another. These ligaments wrap around and hold the joint together, and excess movement is prevented by the action of tendons (nooki koorhi: नूकी कूर्ही), thick cords of connective tissue that attach a muscle to a bone.
Bones and Calcium
The bones that make up the human skeletal system are largely composed of calcium salts, and store calcium as a reserve; this is one of the primary ways that the body obtains the calcium it needs for muscle contractions and other vital functions. The ability of bone to retain calcium is also important to our health; in cases of calcium deficiency, the body can draw on its calcium reserves to restore proper homeostasis.
Protection from Injury and Disease
The bones of the human skeleton provide protection for the organs and soft tissues of the body. The skull protects the brain from trauma while the rib cage helps to protect the lungs and heart. The bones of the vertebral column form a protective canal for the spinal cord, which is essential for the coordination, sensation, and movement of the body.
The skeletal system also provides protection against injury and disease: the bones and joints act as a shock absorber, dampening the impact of external forces against the body; additionally, the bones and joints protect internal organs from harmful bacteria and viruses.
The Benefits of an Active Lifestyle
The benefits of an active lifestyle are manifold, but one of the most important benefits is the health of the skeletal system. Regular physical activity increases bone strength, leading to a decrease in the risk of bone fractures and fractures leading to bone loss. Additionally, physical activity aids in the prevention of osteoporosis (ruksat hon: रुक़्सात होना), a form of bone deterioration that is caused by age- and lifestyle-related calcium deficiency. Research has also shown that physical activity can help to reduce joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation.
Conclusion
The human skeletal system is a complex structure composed of 206 bones that serve important and sometimes overlooked functions in the body. The skeleton serves as a framework that anchors the muscles and provides protection for the organs and soft tissues of the body, while also providing a source of calcium in times of need. Additionally, regular physical activity and an active lifestyle can help to preserve the health of the skeletal system by strengthening bones, reducing joint pain, and preventing the onset of osteoporosis.
Our appreciation for the skeletal system can only be increased when we understand the engineering, protection, and strength it provides—and the importance of taking care of our bones.
