Support: provides structural support for the entire body.

Protection: surrounds soft tissue - example, ribs and sternum protect the heart and lungs - skull protects brain.

movement: skeletal muscle is attached to bone so it pulls on the bone when it contracts.

mineral homeostasis: stores calcium and phosphorus -- minerals are released into the blood when needed.

blood cell production: red bone marrow produces red blood cells, white blood cells and other elements.

storage: storage of minerals and lipids (fats) -- yellow marrow stores fat -- (found in long bones)

Functions of the skeletal system.