Bones vs. Joints: Understanding the Key Differences

Bone

* Hard, rigid tissue that forms the skeleton

* Composed of calcium, phosphorus, and other minerals

* Provides support, protection, and storage of minerals

* Produces red blood cells and white blood cells

* Regulates blood calcium levels

Joint

* Point of contact between two bones

* Allows for movement of the skeleton

* Types of joints:

* Synovial joints: freely moveable joints, such as the knee and elbow

* Fibrous joints: slightly moveable joints, such as the joints between the bones of the skull

* Cartilaginous joints: joints that do not move, such as the joints between the vertebrae