Corpus: Skeleton

The skeleton refers to the complete structure of bones in an organism, forming the supportive framework necessary to shape and support the body. In humans, the skeleton consists of 206 bones, though the exact number can vary slightly between individuals.

In humans, the skeleton is divided into two main parts: the axial skeleton and the appendicular skeleton.

2.1. Axial skeleton

The axial skeleton refers to the bones that form the central structure of the body (the trunk). These include:

• Skull
• Spinal column
  • Vertebrae
  • Sacrum
  • Coccyx
• Bones of thorax
  • Ribs
  • Sternum

2.2. Appendicular skeleton

The appendicular skeleton consists of the bones of the limbs as well as the pelvic and shoulder girdles. These include:

• Shoulder girdle
  • Scapula
  • Clavicle
• Upper extremities
  • Humerus
  • Radius
  • Ulna
  • Bones of hand
• Pelvis
  • Ilium
  • Ischium
  • Pubis
• Lower extremities
  • Femur
  • Tibia
  • Fibula
  • Bones of foot

The skeletal system, in a broader sense, includes the entire passive musculoskeletal system, which comprises bones, ligaments, joints, and joint capsules.

Diseases and conditions affecting the skeletal system are primarily addressed in the field of orthopedics. These conditions include:

• Skeletal dysplasias
• Skeletal deformities
• Fractures
• Bone tumors