Anatomy of the Upper and Lower Extremities from Coursera

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Syllabus

Course Introduction

This course has two main parts, one for the lower extremity and the other for the upper extremity. We will show how the various systems that supply and organize the limb control its function. There are a set of introductory lectures which will allow more experienced students to refresh their knowledge of the limbs and a guide to those with less experience. These lectures will be followed by detailed dissections of the extremities emphasizing locomotion for the lower extremities and hand positioning and function for the upper extremities.

Introduction to Lower Extremity/Limb

The following videos discuss the organization of the lower extremity covering the bones, movements, muscles, vessels, and nerves.

Proximal Lower Extremity

This unit examines the structures of the proximal lower extremity from anterior, femoral triangle, medial, lateral and gluteal perspectives.

Distal Lower Extremity

This unit examines the structures of the distal lower extremity in the posterior thigh, the popliteal region, knee, the compartments of the leg, and foot and ankle.

Introduction to the Upper Extremity/Limb

In the following short videos we will discuss the organization of the upper extremity covering the bones, movements, muscles, vessels, and nerves. We will emphasize the importance of movements of the entire limb to place the hand in functional positions.

Proximal Upper Extremity

This unit examines the structures of the shoulder from anterior, posterior superior and lateral perspectives with emphasis on scapula, rotator cuff and the unique aspects of the shoulder joint.

Brachial Plexus

This unit examines the structures of the brachial plexus from nerve roots to trunks, divisions, cords and branches.

Distal Upper Extremity

This unit examines the structures of the distal upper extremity with a particular emphasis on the structures that comprise the unique facilities of the human hand.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Teaches about the structure and function of the limbs in a medical context

Taught by Charles Duncan, Shanta Kapadia, and William B. Stewart, known for their expertise in human anatomy

Builds on the knowledge of the limbs and is guided for students with less experience

Covers the lower extremity with an emphasis on locomotion and the upper extremity with an emphasis on hand positioning and function

Examines the structures of the limbs from multiple perspectives

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Anatomy of the Upper and Lower Extremities with these activities:

Review anatomical terminology

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Refreshes anatomical terminology to prepare to take the course and strengthen foundational knowledge and understanding of more complex topics

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Revisit the six basic anatomical positions
Refresh the three anatomical planes of the body
Review the四大 anatomical directional terms

Review Nervous System Anatomy

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Improves knowledge of nervous system anatomy, which is crucial for comprehending the function and structure of the human nervous system.

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Review the structure and function of the major regions of the nervous system.
Label a diagram of the nervous system.

Refamiliarize yourself with basic biomechanics and kinesiology

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Reviews foundational knowledge of biomechanics to strengthen the understanding of how the musculoskeletal system functions and the importance of movements.

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Review the basics of levers and how they apply to the human body
Describe the different types of joints and their functions
Reconsider the major muscle groups and their actions

Four other activities

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Conduct Musculoskeletal Examination

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Improves skill in conducting musculoskeletal examinations, which is a fundamental task in anatomy and a valuable skill for healthcare professionals.

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Review the steps of a musculoskeletal examination.
Practice on a volunteer or patient (with consent).

Form Study Groups for Anatomy Review

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Fosters collaborative learning, strengthens understanding through discussions, and provides peer support for challenging concepts.

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Recruit classmates or peers with similar interests in anatomy.
Establish regular meeting times and a study schedule.
Review course materials, discuss difficult concepts, and quiz each other.

Develop Anatomical Flashcards

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Enhances memorization and retention of anatomical structures through the creation and use of flashcards.

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Gather anatomical terms and definitions from course materials.
Design and create flashcards using physical or digital tools.
Regularly review and quiz yourself using the flashcards.

Volunteer at an Anatomy Museum or Exhibit

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Provides an opportunity to share knowledge and enthusiasm for anatomy, engage with the public, and reinforce understanding through teaching.

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Identify and contact local anatomy museums or exhibits.
Inquire about volunteer opportunities and apply for a position.
Assist visitors with anatomical inquiries, provide guided tours, or participate in educational activities.

Career center

Learners who complete Anatomy of the Upper and Lower Extremities will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Physical Therapist Assistant

Physical Therapist Assistants work with people who are injured, disabled, or recovering from surgery or illness. They help patients improve their range of motion, strength, and balance through exercises and physical activities. The Anatomy of the Upper and Lower Extremities course would be helpful for a Physical Therapist Assistant because it provides a detailed understanding of the structure and function of the human body. This knowledge would be essential for developing and implementing effective treatment plans for patients.

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Prosthetist

Prosthetists design, fabricate, and fit artificial limbs for people who have lost a limb due to injury, illness, or birth defects. They also provide rehabilitation services to help patients learn how to use their new limbs. The Anatomy of the Upper and Lower Extremities course would be helpful for a Prosthetist because it provides a detailed understanding of the structure and function of the human body. This knowledge would be essential for designing and fitting artificial limbs that are both functional and comfortable.

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Occupational Therapist

Occupational Therapists help people who have difficulty performing everyday activities due to injury, illness, or disability. They work with patients to develop and implement treatment plans that focus on improving the patient's ability to perform daily tasks such as eating, dressing, and working. The Anatomy of the Upper and Lower Extremities course would be helpful for an Occupational Therapist because it provides a detailed understanding of the structure and function of the human body. This knowledge would be essential for developing and implementing effective treatment plans for patients.

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Athletic Trainer

Athletic Trainers work with athletes to prevent and treat injuries. They also provide rehabilitation services to help athletes recover from injuries. The Anatomy of the Upper and Lower Extremities course would be helpful for an Athletic Trainer because it provides a detailed understanding of the structure and function of the human body. This knowledge would be essential for preventing and treating injuries, and for developing and implementing effective rehabilitation plans.

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Massage Therapist

Massage Therapists use massage to promote relaxation and relieve pain and tension. They also work with people who have injuries or chronic pain to help them improve their range of motion and function. The Anatomy of the Upper and Lower Extremities course would be helpful for a Massage Therapist because it provides a detailed understanding of the structure and function of the human body. This knowledge would be essential for understanding how massage can be used to relieve pain and tension, and for developing and implementing effective treatment plans.

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Chiropractor

Chiropractors diagnose and treat neuromusculoskeletal conditions, such as back pain, neck pain, and headaches. They use a variety of techniques to adjust the spine and other joints, and to relieve pain and improve function. The Anatomy of the Upper and Lower Extremities course would be helpful for a Chiropractor because it provides a detailed understanding of the structure and function of the human body. This knowledge would be essential for diagnosing and treating neuromusculoskeletal conditions.

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Physician Assistant

Physician Assistants provide medical care to patients under the supervision of a physician. They perform a variety of tasks, including taking medical histories, performing physical exams, and diagnosing and treating illnesses. The Anatomy of the Upper and Lower Extremities course would be helpful for a Physician Assistant because it provides a detailed understanding of the structure and function of the human body. This knowledge would be essential for providing safe and effective care to patients.

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Registered Nurse

Registered Nurses provide care to patients in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes. They assess patients' needs, develop and implement care plans, and provide treatments and medications. The Anatomy of the Upper and Lower Extremities course would be helpful for a Registered Nurse because it provides a detailed understanding of the structure and function of the human body. This knowledge would be essential for providing safe and effective care to patients.

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Exercise Physiologist

Exercise Physiologists help people improve their health and fitness through exercise and physical activity. They work with people of all ages and abilities, including those with chronic diseases or disabilities. The Anatomy of the Upper and Lower Extremities course would be helpful for an Exercise Physiologist because it provides a detailed understanding of the structure and function of the human body. This knowledge would be essential for developing and implementing safe and effective exercise programs.

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Biomedical Engineer

Biomedical Engineers design and develop medical devices and equipment, such as artificial limbs, pacemakers, and imaging systems. They also work on developing new treatments for diseases and injuries. The Anatomy of the Upper and Lower Extremities course would be helpful for a Biomedical Engineer because it provides a detailed understanding of the structure and function of the human body. This knowledge would be essential for designing and developing medical devices and equipment that are both safe and effective.

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Personal Trainer

Personal Trainers help people improve their health and fitness through exercise and physical activity. They work with people of all ages and abilities, including those with chronic diseases or disabilities. The Anatomy of the Upper and Lower Extremities course would be helpful for a Personal Trainer because it provides a detailed understanding of the structure and function of the human body. This knowledge would be essential for developing and implementing safe and effective exercise programs.

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Dance Instructor

Dance Instructors teach dance classes to people of all ages and abilities. They help students learn dance moves, improve their coordination, and express themselves creatively. The Anatomy of the Upper and Lower Extremities course would be helpful for a Dance Instructor because it provides a detailed understanding of the structure and function of the human body. This knowledge would be essential for teaching safe and effective dance classes.

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Yoga Instructor

Yoga Instructors teach yoga classes to people of all ages and abilities. They help students improve their flexibility, strength, and balance, and reduce stress. The Anatomy of the Upper and Lower Extremities course would be helpful for a Yoga Instructor because it provides a detailed understanding of the structure and function of the human body. This knowledge would be essential for teaching safe and effective yoga classes.

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Sports Coach

Sports Coaches help athletes improve their skills and performance in a variety of sports. They also help athletes stay healthy and prevent injuries. The Anatomy of the Upper and Lower Extremities course would be helpful for a Sports Coach because it provides a detailed understanding of the structure and function of the human body. This knowledge would be essential for understanding how to improve athletic performance and prevent injuries.

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Fitness Instructor

Fitness Instructors lead group fitness classes, such as aerobics, Zumba, and yoga. They help people improve their health and fitness through exercise and physical activity. The Anatomy of the Upper and Lower Extremities course would be helpful for a Fitness Instructor because it provides a detailed understanding of the structure and function of the human body. This knowledge would be essential for leading safe and effective group fitness classes.

See salaries and explore the career path for Fitness Instructor