Paper 1 Topic 1 Applied anatomy and physiology

Functions of the skeleton:

Key functions

The key functions of the skeleton are:

- Production of blood cells

- Storage of minerals

- Protection of vital organs 

- Muscle attachment

- Formation of joints for movement

Aid movement

Bones provide a place for the muscles to attach to, so that when muscles contract they pull the bones to cause movement. Movement occurs at the joints of the skeleton. Bones also act as levers and allow the body to increase the forces it can generate or the speed of a movement. This is helpful in physical activity. For example, a cricket player with longer levers will generate more force to hit the ball further.

Blood cell production

Blood cells are produced in the bone marrow.

- Platelets help clotting when cut.

- Red blood cells transport oxygen to working muscles.

- White blood cells help fighting infection.

Mineral storage

Calcium and phosphorus are stored in bones to help strengthen them.

Protection 

Your skeleton provides protection for your vital organs, including the heart. For example, your skull protects your brain if an oppenent follows through widly with their hockey stick and it hits you on the head during a game.

Classification of bones:

There are four types of bones:

Long bones:

These aid movement by working as levers. For example the femur and the humerus.

Short bones:

These are weight bearing and provide support. For example the carpals and the tarslas. Short bones are very good for golfers because it allows them to have supprt in their wrists whilst they swing the golf club.

Flat bones:

These provide protection and a broad surface for muscles to attach to. For example the cranium, the ribs and the scapular.

Irregular bones

These provide protection and a place for muscle attachment. For example the vertebrae.

Classification of joints:

There are four types of joint:

Hinge joint:

These are located at the knee, elbow and ankle. They allow flexion and extension.

Ball and socket joints

These are ocated at the hip and shoulder. They mover through flexion, extension, rotation, circumduction, abduction and adduction. When a bowler is bowling the bal they need this type of joint in their shoulder to be able to do the correct action.

Pivot joints

These are located at the neck (atlas and axis). They move through rotation.

Condyloid joint

This is located at the wrist. This joint moves through flexion, extension and circumduction.

Movement of joints

Flexion:

Flexion is the term given when the angle at a joint decreases. Example: at the knee when the player is preparing to kick a football.

Extension:

Extension is the term given when the angle at a joint increases. Example: at the knee when following through after kicking a football.

Abduction:

Abduction is the movement of a limb away from the midline of the body. Example: at the shoulder when a cricketer reaches sideways to catch a ball.

Adduction:

Adduction is the movement of a limb towards the midline of the body. Example: at the hip…