FLAT BONES
Are relatively thin and flat, but
often slightly curved in shape.
These bones commonly protect
important soft underlying
structures (such as the brain), and
their shape also allows for
extensive attachment of muscles.
E.g. Pelvis / ilium
Ribs
Sternum
Scapulae
Some of the skull
The Skeletal system
Questions: The Skeletal system
The skeletal system provides
the structural framework of
the human body, and its joints
permit the varied movements
we explore in dance.
The role of bones in joints is
key for understanding and
describing human movement.
The composition of bone
allows it to serve in the
following key functions.
Support
Protection
Movement
Blood cell production
Mineral storage
Bones come in a variety of
shapes and sizes. They can be
classified according to their
shape into five types:
Long bones
Short bones
Flat bones
Irregular bones
Sesamoid bones
LONG BONES
Are tubular in shape and much
longer than they are wide. They
are found in the limbs, where
they serve as levers to enhance
movement.
E.g. Thigh bone / Femur.
Clavicles
Humerus
Radius
Ulna
Metacarpals & metatarsals
Phalanges
Tibia
Fibula
The long bones in the lower body
are generally longer and stronger
to bear weight, while the ones in
the upper body are smaller and
lighter for reaching and to
manipulate objects.
SHORT BONES
Are cubical in shape and are
found in the upper portion of the
hand and feet:
E.g. Carpals & Tarsals
These bones aid with shock
absorption, transmission of forces
and small complex movements.
IRREGULAR BONES
Exhibit complex and varied
shapes. Their shape is adapted to
special purposes; and they serve
a variety of functions including
protecting the spinal cord,
supporting body weight,
transmitting loads, providing sites
for muscle attachment and
facilitating movement.
E.g. Vertebrae
Lower pelvis – Ischium &
pubis
SESAMOID BONES
Are bones that form within a
tendon. They help protect the
tendon from excessive wear due to
rubbing against the underlying
bone, and they change the angle of
the tendon so that the muscle can
produce more effective force.
E.g. Kneecap / Patella
