Skeletal Lab

We will explore the axial and appendicular skeletons of the human body.

The axial skeleton comprises the bones of the skull, vertebral column, and ribcage. The appendicular skeleton consists of the bones of the upper and lower extremities, shoulder girdle, and pelvis. Understanding the anatomy and features of these bones is crucial for medical professionals, physical therapists, and anyone interested in human anatomy.

We will study the structure and function of various bones, including their shape, size, and markings. We will identify various features of the bones, such as articulating surfaces, foramina, processes, and fossae. We will also learn about the bones' role in supporting the body, protecting organs, and facilitating movement.

By the end of this lab, you should be able to identify the bones of the axial and appendicular skeletons and recognize their features. You will also understand the role of each bone in supporting the human body and enabling movement.

Please note that this manual uses images from human cadavers.

Objectives

·         Familiarize yourself with the axial and appendicular skeletons of the human body.

·         Identify and label the bones of the skull, vertebral column, ribcage, upper and lower extremities, shoulder girdle, and pelvis.

·         Examine the shape, size, and markings of each bone to understand their unique characteristics.

·         Identify and describe the articulating surfaces, foramina, processes, and fossae present in the bones.

·         Understand the structural and functional role of each bone in supporting the body and protecting vital organs.

·         Learn about the bones' contribution to facilitating movement and understand their relationship with muscles and joints.

·         Develop the ability to identify bones and recognize their features through visual examination and hands-on experience.

·         Demonstrate knowledge of the axial and appendicular skeletons by successfully answering questions or participating in interactive discussions.

Materials

·         Complete human skeleton (whole or disarticulated)

Procedure

·         Identify each bone and feature presented in the lab. 

·         Draw each bone with its detailed features.

·         Articulate a skeleton properly

Axial Skeleton

Bones are labeled in blue and features are in black.

In the spaces provided below draw and label the bone(s) and feature(s) requested. 

Cranial  and Facial Bones

Coronal suture, sagittal suture

Occipital, lambdoid suture, sutural bone

Parietal, temporal, sagittal suture, zygomatic, external acoustic meatus, mastoid process, styloid process, zygomatic arch, mandibular body, mandibular ramus

Frontal, nasal, ethmoid, vomer, maxilla, mandible, supraorbital foramen, infraorbital foramen, glabella, mental foramen 

Vertebral Bones

Atlas, Axis, spinous process, transverse process, transverse foramen, vertebral foramen, dens body

Cervical Vertebrae, spinous process, transverse process, transverse foramen, vertebral foramen, body 

Thoracic Vertebrae, spinous process, transverse process, transverse foramen, vertebral foramen, body

Lumbar Vertebrae, spinous process, transverse process, transverse foramen, vertebral foramen, body

Sacrum, sacral foramen, Coccyx, Hyoid (cervical area)

Thoracic Cage

True Ribs, false ribs, floating ribs, sternum, manubrium, jugular notch, sternal body, xiphoid process, costal cartilage

Appendicular Skeleton

Upper Limb

Pectoral Girdle

Scapula, acromion process, coracoid process, glenoid cavity, spine of the scapula

Clavicle

Brachium

Humerus, Head, Neck, Shaft, trochlea, capitulum, grater trochanter, lesser trochanter

Antebrachium

Ulna, Olecranon, ulnar styloid process, radius, radial styloid process, radial head

Carpals and Manus

Scaphoid, Lunate, Triquetrum, Pisiform, Trapezium, Trapezoid, Capitate, Hamate, Metacarpals, Proximal Phalanges, Medial Phalanges, Distal Phalanges

Lower Limb

Pelvic Girdle

Coxal, ileum, ischium, pubic, obturator foramen, ischial tuberosity, ASIS, AIIS, PSIS, PIIS, Illiac Crest, ala, acetabulum

Femoral

Femur, Femoral Head, Femoral neck, Fovea, Greater tubercle, lesser tubercle, Condyle, epicondyles, patella

Leg

Tibia, Intercondylar eminence, tibial tuberosity, medial malleolus

Fibula, lateral malleolus

Pedal

Talus, calcaneus, navicular, cuboid, medial cuneiform, intermediate cuneiform, lateral cuneiform, metatarsals, proximal phalange, intermediate phalange, distal phalange

Review Questions

1.       What are the five major functions of the human skeletal system?
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2.       How does the structure of a bone support its function in the human body?
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3.       How does the human skeletal system allow for movement?
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4.       Compare and contrast the structure and function of long bones and flat bones in the human body.
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5.       How does the human skeletal system adapt to changes in physical activity over time?
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6.       What are the risks and benefits of weight-bearing exercise on bone health?
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7.       What is the composition of bone tissue?
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8.       How does bone remodeling maintain bone homeostasis in the human body?
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9.       How can a lack of calcium in the diet affect bone health?
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10.    How does aging affect the human skeletal system?
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