Corpus

Skeletal System

The 206-bone framework that protects organs, stores minerals and enables movement.

By The Corpus Atlas Editorial TeamUpdated Last reviewed How we source this

Bone is living, actively remodelling tissue — it rebuilds itself throughout life in response to the loads placed on it. The skeleton protects vital organs, anchors muscles for movement, manufactures blood cells in its marrow, and serves as the body's main reservoir of calcium and phosphorus.

Key organs & structures

How it connects

Muscular system

Resistance training is one of the few proven ways to increase bone density.

Endocrine system

Hormonal changes strongly influence lifetime bone density, particularly around menopause.

Did you know?

  • A quarter of all the bones in your body are in your hands.
  • Bone continuously remodels itself — most of the adult skeleton is replaced over roughly a decade.