The skeleton has several functions:
- It provides structural support for muscles and organs.
- It also serves as a storehouse for the body's calcium and other essential minerals, such as phosphorus and magnesium.
- It protects vital internal organs.
The skeleton holds 99% of the body's calcium. The remaining 1% circulates in the blood and is essential for crucial bodily functions, ranging from muscle contraction to nerve function to blood clotting.
Bone tissue is constantly being broken down and reformed. This cycle is necessary to grow, repair damage caused by everyday stress, and maintain homeostasis. The two main cells involved in this process are osteoclasts and osteoblasts.
