HWE330 Week 2 – Discussion

Part One
Since my name starts with an L, I will be discussing the major functions of the
skeletal and muscular systems. The skeletal system comprises bones that form the rigid
framework of the human body. The skeletal system is also comprised of cartilage and
ligaments (Lippert, 2017). The skeletal system provides support to the human body.
Cartilages, on the other hand, provide a flexible tissue that facilitates movement. The skeletal
system also protects important organs such as the heart and the lungs. The spine protects the
spinal cord. On the other hand, the skull protects the brain (Lippert, 2017). The bone tissue
also provides an important mineral reservoir. Calcium and phosphorous are stored in the
skeletal system. Bone also aid in the storage of fat and the production of blood cells. The red
bone marrow helps in the production of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
The muscular system aids in mobility. The muscular system enables individuals to
move. Activities such as walking, running, and swimming are a result of coordinated
motions. Muscles also help one to achieve stability (Lippert, 2017). Muscles are also
important since they ensure that the body achieves the current posture. The muscular system
also aids in important body functions such as circulation, respiration, and digestion. The heart
contains muscles that pump blood to various organs in the body (Lippert, 2017). On the other
hand, the diaphragm muscle helps in inhaling and exhaling. Food moves through the
digestive system through relaxation and contraction of muscles, a process called peristalsis.
Muscles also aid in childbirth.
Part Two
The skeletal, muscular, articular, and nervous system work together to coordinate the
walking process. The walking process is a complex activity that requires the coordination of

various muscles. Research shows that the articular system generates a basic rhythmic walking
activity. The human pattern of walking is unique in that it helps in the conservation of energy
as well as being more efficient compared to other primates. Many muscles coordinate to
ensure that walking is a success (Nielsen, 2003). One foot is elevated one to two centimeters
above the ground during walking. The neuronal networks in the central nervous system are
responsible for walking. Muscles of the lower leg, including soleus and tibialis, are involved
in the walking process. Muscles in the upper leg also relax and contract in a rhythm to ensure
that one is able to walk successfully. The muscles include the lateralis, medialis, obliques,
and rectus femoris. The bones are also involved in the walking process (Nielsen, 2003). The
walking can be divided into swing and stance phases (Nielsen, 2003). When the limb is off
the ground, the phase is referred to as the swing phase. When the limb is in the ground, the
process is called the stance phase. Bones coordinate with the muscles to ensure that both the
swing phase and the stance phase are executed correctly in the phase of gravity. Joints are
also involved in achieving the motion. The hip, knee, and ankle joints help in ensuring that
the bones and the muscles coordinate in the walking process.
References

Lippert, L. S. (2017). Clinical kinesiology and anatomy (6th ed.). Retrieved
from https://redshelf.com
Nielsen, J. B. (2003). How we walk: central control of muscle activity during human
walking. The Neuroscientist, 9(3), 195-204.