Appendikulærskelettet

Appendikulærskelettet refers to the bones of the limbs and their girdles, which attach to the axial skeleton. It comprises the pectoral girdle, the upper limbs, the pelvic girdle, and the lower limbs.

The pectoral girdle, also known as the shoulder girdle, consists of the clavicle (collarbone) and the scapula (shoulder blade). It connects the arms to the trunk and allows for a wide range of motion. The upper limb includes the humerus (upper arm bone), the radius and ulna (forearm bones), and the carpals, metacarpals, and phalanges that form the wrist, hand, and fingers.

The pelvic girdle, or hip girdle, is formed by the two hip bones (ossa coxae), each of which is a fusion of the ilium, ischium, and pubis. This girdle articulates with the sacrum of the vertebral column and provides attachment for the lower limbs, supporting the weight of the body and acting as a crucial base for locomotion. The lower limb consists of the femur (thigh bone), the tibia and fibula (lower leg bones), and the tarsals, metatarsals, and phalanges that make up the ankle, foot, and toes.

Together, the appendicular skeleton allows for movement, support, and interaction with the environment. Its structure is adapted to the specific functions of each limb, from grasping and manipulation in the upper limbs to locomotion and weight-bearing in the lower limbs.