General Overview

Musculoskeletal System

A complex organ system, comprised of bones, cartilage, skeletal muscles, ligaments, and tendons, which provides form, stability, and movement to the body.

Orthopedics

A branch of medical science that is concerned with the disorders of the musculoskeletal system.

The number of bones in an adult skeleton

206 bones— most of the bones are paired (from right to left)

The number of bones in an adult skeleton

More than 206 bones— most of the bones are in development and will be fused throughout development.

Axial Skeleton

Makes up the head and torso (the central axis) of the human body, consisting of 80 bones, which protect and support the brain, spinal cord, and visceral organs.

• (e.g., the cranium surrounds the brain, the vertebrae surround the spinal cord, and the ribs surround the heart and lungs)

Appendicular Skeleton

Makes up the upper and lower limbs of the human body, consisting of 126 bones, which facilitate movement and provide structural support.