The human body has bones for many reasons. Here are some of the most important functions of bones:
- Support: Bones provide support for the body and help to keep its shape. They also protect the internal organs from injury.
- Movement: Bones work with muscles to allow for movement. The muscles attach to the bones and pull on them, which causes the bones to move.
- Protection: Bones protect the internal organs from injury. For example, the skull protects the brain and the rib cage protects the heart and lungs.
- Production of blood cells: The bone marrow, which is found inside some bones, produces blood cells. Blood cells are essential for carrying oxygen and nutrients around the body and for fighting infection.
- Storage of minerals: Bones store minerals such as calcium and phosphorus. These minerals are essential for strong bones and teeth.
- Homeostasis: Bones help to regulate the body’s calcium levels. When the body needs more calcium, it can draw it from the bones. When the body has too much calcium, it can store it in the bones.
In short, bones are essential for the structure, movement, protection, and function of the human body.
Here are some additional details about each of the functions of bones:
- Support: The bones of the skeleton form a framework that supports the body and helps to keep its shape. The skull, for example, supports the brain and protects it from injury. The spine supports the body and allows it to bend and twist. The ribs protect the heart and lungs.
- Movement: Bones work with muscles to allow for movement. The muscles attach to the bones and pull on them, which causes the bones to move. The bones of the arms and legs, for example, work with the muscles to allow us to walk, run, and climb.
- Protection: Bones protect the internal organs from injury. The skull protects the brain, the rib cage protects the heart and lungs, and the pelvis protects the bladder, bowel, and reproductive organs.
- Production of blood cells: The bone marrow, which is found inside some bones, produces blood cells. Blood cells are essential for carrying oxygen and nutrients around the body and for fighting infection. The bone marrow produces red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
- Storage of minerals: Bones store minerals such as calcium and phosphorus. These minerals are essential for strong bones and teeth. When the body needs more calcium, it can draw it from the bones. When the body has too much calcium, it can store it in the bones.
- Homeostasis: Bones help to regulate the body’s calcium levels. When the body needs more calcium, it can draw it from the bones. When the body has too much calcium, it can store it in the bones.