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Anatomy of the Upper and Lower Extremities

4.9 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Half star
Based on 98 ratings
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Shanta Kapadia, Charles Duncan, and William B. Stewart

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.

This course is part 2/4 in the Yale Human Anatomy Specialization.

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What's inside

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.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
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

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Reviews summary

In-depth anatomy with dissection focus

According to students, this course offers an in-depth exploration of upper and lower extremity anatomy, highly valued for its detailed dissection videos and comprehensive coverage. Learners consistently praise the clarity and expertise of the instructors, who make complex topics engaging. While providing an excellent foundation for advanced learners and medical professionals, some note its challenging pace and the assumption of prior anatomical knowledge, making it less suitable for absolute beginners. The course's focus on functional anatomy and clinical relevance is frequently highlighted as a significant strength, though a few older reviews mention occasional variations in video production quality.
Strong emphasis on the practical application of anatomical knowledge.
"I learned so much more than I expected about limb control."
"The emphasis on hand function and locomotion was practical and well-explained."
"I found the course very effective for learning complex anatomical relationships. The focus on functional anatomy was particularly useful for my field."
"I really appreciated the real-world application examples."
Offers extensive, systematic, and well-organized anatomical content.
"The course material is very well-organized. I found the segments on the brachial plexus and femoral triangle to be incredibly informative and detailed."
"Exceptional depth and clarity. This course sets a high bar for online anatomy education."
"The detailed breakdown of each muscle, nerve, and vessel was exactly what I needed. It's intensive but incredibly thorough."
"I loved the systematic approach to each region."
Instructors provide clear, passionate, and comprehensive explanations.
"The instructors explain complex concepts wonderfully."
"Instructor's clarity and passion for the subject made even dense topics engaging."
"The instructors clarify many common misconceptions."
"Highly professional and meticulously presented."
Exceptional visual learning through high-quality dissection demonstrations.
"The detailed dissections and anatomical landmarks were very clear."
"Absolutely stellar! The visuals were top-notch, truly bringing the anatomy to life."
"The dissection videos are a key highlight, providing unparalleled insight."
"The dissections are truly the best part; they provide a perspective you can't get from textbooks alone."
Some older reviews note minor inconsistencies in video production.
"Sometimes the audio quality varied slightly, but it wasn't a major issue."
"Some of the videos felt a bit dated in terms of production quality."
"The production quality for some videos was poor, making it difficult to see anatomical structures clearly."
Best suited for learners with existing foundational anatomy knowledge.
"As a beginner, I found it overwhelming at times and needed a lot of external resources to keep up. Prerequisite knowledge is truly key."
"I struggled with the pace and the sheer volume of information. While detailed, it assumes a higher level of prior anatomical knowledge than I had."
"Not suitable for absolute beginners."
"Completely lost from the start. This course needs a much stronger foundation for true beginners. Felt like it was designed for medical students only, not general learners."

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
Refreshes anatomical terminology to prepare to take the course and strengthen foundational knowledge and understanding of more complex topics
Show steps
  • 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
Improves knowledge of nervous system anatomy, which is crucial for comprehending the function and structure of the human nervous system.
Browse courses on Neuroanatomy
Show steps
  • 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
Reviews foundational knowledge of biomechanics to strengthen the understanding of how the musculoskeletal system functions and the importance of movements.
Browse courses on Biomechanics
Show steps
  • 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
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Conduct Musculoskeletal Examination
Improves skill in conducting musculoskeletal examinations, which is a fundamental task in anatomy and a valuable skill for healthcare professionals.
Browse courses on Human Anatomy
Show steps
  • Review the steps of a musculoskeletal examination.
  • Practice on a volunteer or patient (with consent).
Form Study Groups for Anatomy Review
Fosters collaborative learning, strengthens understanding through discussions, and provides peer support for challenging concepts.
Browse courses on Peer Support
Show steps
  • 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
Enhances memorization and retention of anatomical structures through the creation and use of flashcards.
Browse courses on Active Recall
Show steps
  • 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
Provides an opportunity to share knowledge and enthusiasm for anatomy, engage with the public, and reinforce understanding through teaching.
Browse courses on Public Engagement
Show steps
  • 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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Physical Therapist Assistant
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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Occupational Therapist
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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Prosthetist
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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Athletic Trainer
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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Massage Therapist
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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Chiropractor
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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Registered Nurse
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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Physician Assistant
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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Biomedical Engineer
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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Exercise Physiologist
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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Personal Trainer
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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Yoga Instructor
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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Dance Instructor
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.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sports Coach
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

Reading list

We've selected ten books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Anatomy of the Upper and Lower Extremities .
Cover image
Gray's Anatomy for Students
Save
This classic textbook of human anatomy that provides a comprehensive overview of the subject. It is well-written and well-illustrated, and it valuable resource for students of all levels. This textbook useful reference tool and is commonly used as a textbook at academic institutions.
Grays Anatomy For Students 5Ed (Ie) (Pb 2024)
Paperback
$$$
Cover image
Moore's Clinically Oriented Anatomy
Save
This is another classic textbook of human anatomy that is written with a clinical focus. It valuable resource for students who are interested in learning about the clinical applications of anatomy.
Moore's Clinically Oriented Anatomy (Lippincott...
Paperback
$$$$
Moore's Clinically Oriented Anatomy
Paperback
$$$$
Moore's Clinically Oriented Anatomy 9e Lippincott...
Product Bundle
$$$$
Moore's Clinically Oriented Anatomy
Paperback
$$$$
Moore's Clinically Oriented Anatomy 9e Lippincott...
Misc. Supplies
$$$$
Clinically Oriented Anatomy. Keith L. Moore, Arthur...
Paperback
$$$
Moore's Clinically Oriented Anatomy (Lippincott...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Moore's Clinically Oriented Anatomy
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Netter Atlas of Human Anatomy: Classic Regional...
Save
This beautiful atlas of human anatomy that is filled with detailed illustrations. It valuable resource for students who want to learn about the anatomy of the human body in a visual way.
Netter Atlas of Human Anatomy: Classic Regional...
Paperback
$$$
Netter Atlas of Human Anatomy International Edition...
Paperback
$$$
Cover image
Grant's Atlas of Anatomy
Save
This comprehensive atlas of human anatomy that is filled with detailed illustrations. It valuable resource for students who want to learn about the anatomy of the human body in a visual way.
Grant's Atlas of Anatomy, 13th Edition
Paperback
$$$
Cover image
Atlas and Text-Book of Human Anatomy: Vascular...
Save
This popular atlas of human anatomy that is filled with detailed illustrations. It valuable resource for students who want to learn about the anatomy of the human body in a visual way.
Atlas and Text-Book of Human Anatomy: Vascular...
Paperback
Check
Atlas and Text-Book of Human Anatomy: Vascular...
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Human Anatomy & Physiology, Global Edition
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of human anatomy and physiology. It valuable resource for students who are interested in learning more about the structure and function of the human body.
Human Anatomy Physiology, Global Edition
Paperback
$$$$
Cover image
Principles of Anatomy and Physiology, 16th Edition,...
Save
Provides a clear and concise overview of the principles of anatomy and physiology.
Principles of Anatomy and Physiology, 16th Edition,...
Paperback
Check
Principles of Anatomy and Physiology, 16th Edition,...
Kindle Edition
Check
Human Anatomy
Save
This concise and affordable textbook of human anatomy.
Human Anatomy
Paperback
Check
Human Anatomy
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Anatomy & Physiology All-in-One For Dummies (+...
Save
This straightforward and easy-to-understand guide to human anatomy and physiology.
Anatomy & Physiology All-in-One For Dummies (+...
Paperback
$$
Anatomy & Physiology All-in-One For Dummies (+...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Master Guide to Drawing Cartoons
Save
This fun and engaging way to learn about human anatomy. It valuable resource for students who want to learn about the anatomy of the human body in a creative way.
The Master Guide to Drawing Cartoons: How to Draw...
Paperback
$$

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Course image
Rating
4.9 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Half star
Effort
Approx. 9 hours
Level
Intermediate
Via
Coursera
Institution
Yale University
Instructors
Shanta Kapadia
Charles Duncan
William B. Stewart
Language
English
Transcripts
Español Français Português Deutsch Italiano 中文 العربية 한국어 日本語 हिंदी Nederlands Svenska Pусский Türkçe Polski Ελληνικά українська мова magyar nyelv Bahasa Indonesia ไทย қазақша اُردُو, فارسی বাংলা پښتو آذربایجان دیلی
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
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
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