Each of the 206 individual bones that comprise the human skeleton, are living organs, and, along with associated cartilages, ligaments, and other connective tissues, define the skeletal system. Recognition that inside the human body each bone is a living organ, vascularized and innervated, should help to ignite your enthusiasm for these remarkable structures!
Though osseus tissue (bone) is classified as a supporting connective tissue..., the bones of the skeletal system do much more than simply provide a supporting framework for the other tissues of the body. Below, in no particular order, are the functions of the skeletal system:
Support: provides a framework for the soft-tissues of the body
Protection: provides protection for internal organs
Mineral Storage: serves as site of calcium and phosphate storage
Hematopoiesis: red bone marrow serves as the site of blood cell production
