Main functions of skeletal system are given below:
i. Shape and structure: The boney framework gives human being its shape and structure like tall or small, thin or stout.
ii. Support: it gives support to the body that comes out as a human body. The bones provide support to our muscular system.
iii. Protection: bones protect our vital organs. Example: skull protects brain, thoracic cage protects heart, lungs and pancreas.
iv. Lever: bones act as a lever like a simple machine. For example while lifting a weight, movable joints like elbow joint acts like fulcrum and length of arm bone acts like crow bar to reduce effort and helps to lift weight.
v. Store house: The hollow space of bones acts like a storehouse of different minerals and salts like calcium, potassium, iron, etc.
vi. Production of RBCs: red blood cells are produced in the bone marrow. It is the factory to produce RBCs.
vii. Junction : bones provide junction or attachment to skeletal muscle that helps in visible movement.
viii. Self repair: Whenever bones are damaged, they are capable of doing self repair.