There are five functions of the skeletal system. The five functions of the skeletal system are: provides shape and support, allows movement, protects organs, produces blood cells, and stores minerals. Without bones, we would be very flat. We wouldn't be able to handle anything. We would just be muscle and skin. We would look like deflated balloons. Bones allow us to move. Joints allow bones to move. If we had no joints and our body was just one very long connected bone, we would be very stiff. We should keep all parts of our body very straight. You would not be able to bend your elbow or knee. It would be very difficult to live without joints connecting bones. Bones also protect many vital organs. So if you fell on your chest, where your lungs are devoid of bone, your lungs would be easily damaged. With bones, the bone would take much of the impact so the organs would not be damaged. Bones produce blood cells in the bone marrow. Additionally, bones store minerals. Most bones store minerals and other materials that the body needs. How the skeletal system works...