ABSTRACT
Bone and cartilage are highly specialized connective tissues that together make up the skeleton. The skeleton has multiple functions including (1) locomotion, by providing a structure and attachment sides for muscle; (2) protection, by encasing vital organs and tissues; and (3) metabolism, by serving as a reserve of mineral ions such as calcium and phosphorus. The following section provides a brief overview of the anatomy of the skeleton. Comprehensive reviews of structure and function of the skeleton are provided in review articles and reference texts (Marks and Popoff 1988; Bullough 2011).
