The bone structure, also called the skeleton, is basically the shell that keeps us standing. We have a body so strong that it can provide us with extreme movements and exercises, but at the same time very fragile, as it is enough with a strong blow, a bad movement, or some unforeseen event, to fracture a bone in our body.
That is why it is very important to know this structure, and how bone diseases can progressively deteriorate the quality of life we enjoy, and thus affect our body directly.
The skeletal system is composed of two types of tissue, on the one hand, we have a large bone tissue mostly represented by bones, and cartilaginous tissue. These two types of tissues are highly related to each other, and their proper functioning determines the good and healthy mobility of our body for day-to-day activities.
At the same time, there is the joint system, which consists properly of joints, which is also very important to know, since both bones and cartilaginous tissue join through joints. Now, the union of these systems together with the muscular system is what gives people their correct mobility, since by being linked bones through tissues, and with a healthy and strong musculature, the human body has a greater capacity to perform optimally in leisure, work, sports, and even pleasure.
Functions and Importance of the Skeletal System in terms of Organs
There are five main functions, which are found in most texts and materials related to the subject. First, the skeletal system serves to hold the body up basically as we have already mentioned throughout the blog, it should also be noted that bones protect the body’s organs from any strong contact or trauma that a person may suffer.
The brain could be understood as the hard drive, motor, and database of each human body. So the skull is nothing more than a skeletal structure that protects the brain, since despite having a high importance in terms of the correct functioning, and even life of a person, it is a highly sensitive and delicate organ, and a severe trauma suffered at the level of the skull can even cause death in some cases.
The spinal cord is another organ that is protected by the spine, on the other hand, the heart and lungs are protected by the thoracic cavity.
Now, a function that is worth highlighting from a physiological point of view, is that there are reserves of salts and minerals in the bones, including the most important one, calcium. As well as reserves of phosphate.
Diseases of the Skeletal System
There are various diseases that can affect the skeletal system and the joints of the human body. Below we share some of the most common ones, although some of them are due to or are a consequence of other diseases, it is important to take care of our bone structure in terms of nutrition, healthy habits, and protection when engaging in sports that may end up compromising the bones of our body.
- Osteoporosis: It is a disease characterized by the loss of bone density, which increases the risk of bone fractures. It is more common in women after menopause, but can also affect men.
- Arthritis: It is an inflammatory disease that can affect one or several joints of the body. Arthritis can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints, which can limit the ability to move.
- Osteoarthritis: It is a degenerative disease that affects the cartilage of the joints. Osteoarthritis can cause pain, stiffness, and limitation in the movement of the joints.
- Scoliosis: It is an abnormal curvature of the spine that can affect posture and mobility.
• Osteomyelitis: It is an infection of the bone that can be caused by bacteria or other microorganisms. Osteomyelitis can cause pain, inflammation, and fever.
It is important to note that there are many other diseases and conditions that can affect the skeletal system and joints, so it is important to consult a doctor if you experience any type of symptoms or discomfort.
In conclusion, the skeletal system is essential for proper mobility and protection of the organs in the human body. Bone diseases can significantly affect a person’s quality of life and limit their ability to move, so it is important to know how to prevent and treat them. Additionally, the skeletal system also plays an important physiological function by storing minerals and salts in the bones, which contributes to the overall health maintenance of the body. It is necessary to take care of and maintain bone health for an active and healthy life.
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