Guiding Questions
- What is the muscular system?
- What are the components of the muscular system?
- What are the functions of the muscular system?
- How does the muscular system work with the skeletal system?
- What are some common diseases related to the muscular system?
Overview
Think of a car. It would not be able to move without fuel.
In a similar manner, the body would not be able to move without the muscular system contracting and relaxing muscles. It works closely with the skeletal system to produce movement, maintain posture, and support important body functions.
Main Components
The muscular system is organized into three major types of muscles:
- Smooth Muscle
Smooth muscles work non-voluntarily (automatically) to perform tasks such as digestion.
- Skeletal Muscle
Skeletal muscles are attached to bones. They allow the body to perform voluntary movements, meaning ones that you can control, such as walking, running, and lifting objects.
- Cardiac Muscle
Cardiac muscle is a special type of muscle found only in the heart. It contracts continuously to pump blood throughout the body and works non-voluntarily.
How the Muscular and Skeletal Systems Work Together
The muscular system works very closely with the skeletal system to create movement. Muscles are connected to bones by tendons. When a muscle contracts, it pulls on a bone, causing movement at a joint. When the muscle relaxes, the bone returns to its original position. Together, these two systems allow the body to move, maintain posture, and perform everyday activities.
Functions of the Muscular System
The muscular system performs various functions to support the body’s functions.
- The muscles work closely with the bones to allow the body to allow for movement.
- It helps maintain posture by maintaining balance.
- The muscles generate heat as they contract, which regulates body temperature.
- Certain muscles are specialized to assist with processes such as circulation, breathing, and digestion.
Common Diseases
There are some diseases that can interfere with the muscular system and disturb normal functions. Common ones include:
- Muscle strains: Injuries that occur when muscles are overstretched or torn
- Muscular dystrophy: A group of genetic conditions that cause progressive muscle weakness
- Tendinitis: Inflammation of tendons that can cause pain and limited movement
Stretching and exercising can keep the muscles healthy and strong.
Review
What system allows the body to move? → Muscular system
What type of muscle is attached to bones? → Skeletal muscle
Which type of muscle works automatically inside organs? → Smooth muscle
What type of muscle is found only in the heart? → Cardiac muscle
Which system works closely with the muscular system to allow movement? → Skeletal system
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