Skeletal System

Purpose Support framework Protects vital organs Works with muscles to produce movement Produces blood cells

Facts Your skeleton is made up of 206 bones. Bones start out as flexible cartilage but within a few weeks begin to develop into hard deposits of calcium (through a process called ossification.) It takes roughly 20 years for the bone process to be completely hardened. Bones are made up of types of material: compact and spongy (porous) bone. Bone marrow forms red and white blood cells.

Bone (same function as the system.) structural material Outer “shell” is hard Inner portion is porous/spongy

Bone marrow Produces blood cells soft tissue in center area of most bones

Cartilage Acts as a cushion where bones meet Soft, connective tissue on the end of some bones Vertebrae Knee and hip joints End of your nose

Ligament Tough fiber that connects bones together Sprained ankles and knees are caused by stretched or torn ligaments

Joint Point where two bones meet Ball and socket: hip and shoulder Hinge: fingers, elbows, and knees Pivot: Neck Gliding: wrist

Osteoporosis A condition in which the bones become thin and brittle Break more easily Take longer to heal

Why should teens care? After age 30 you stop adding bone If you don’t have enough calcium in your diet, your body takes it from your bones, leading to bone loss You CANNOT make it up later; this is your ONE chance Build up your savings account now!

Problems: Fractures: a break in a bone Dislocation: a bone being pushed out of joint Sprain: stretching or twisting of a ligament Osteoarthritis: a breakdown of cartilage caused by wear and tear Scoliosis: a sideways curvature of the spine

Diet and Osteoporosis Calcium and phosphorous form the hard substance in bone Foods high in calcium: milk and milk products, and dark green leafy vegetables Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium Our bodies make vitamin from sun exposure Most milk and milk products in the US are fortified with Vitamin D Teens need 4 servings of calcium rich foods every day

Physical activity and Osteoporosis Weight-bearing physical activity 2 to 3 times per week sends signals to your body to make the bones stronger Physical activity 60 minutes every day Stronger muscles protect joints

Seven ways to keep your skeletal system healthy Eat food and beverages rich in calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D Wear protective equipment when playing sports Exercise regularly to strengthen joints and ligaments Sit, stand, and walk with correct posture

5. Warm up before participating in physical activity 6. Get screened for scoliosis 7. Wear properly fitting, well-cushioned shoes