Upper Limb Anatomy Course

Offered by PennX

Course Description

Welcome to the fascinating world of upper limb anatomy! This comprehensive online course, offered by PennX, provides an exceptional opportunity to delve into the intricate structures and functions of the human upper limb without the need for a cadaver lab. Perfect for those with a curiosity about the human body or professionals looking to enhance their anatomical knowledge, this course offers a detailed exploration of the upper limb's bones, muscles, joints, innervation, and blood supply.

What You Will Learn

  • Fundamental anatomical terminology
  • Detailed knowledge of upper limb bones and their articulations
  • Understanding of upper limb muscles and their actions
  • Comprehensive overview of the innervation and blood supply of the upper limb
  • Practical application of anatomical knowledge to understand movement and function

Pre-requisites

No prior knowledge or skills are required to enroll in this introductory-level course. It is designed to be accessible to anyone with an interest in human anatomy, regardless of their background.

Course Content

  • Anatomical terminology and limb regions
  • Osteology and skeletal anatomy of the upper limb
  • Muscle attachments and actions
  • Planes of motion
  • Nervous system overview and brachial plexus
  • Blood supply of the upper limb
  • Anatomy and movements of the scapula
  • Structure and function of the glenohumeral joint
  • Elbow and wrist anatomy and movements
  • Hand structure, including carpal tunnel and intrinsic/extrinsic muscles

Who This Course Is For

  • Students considering a career in healthcare or medicine
  • Allied health professionals seeking to refresh or expand their anatomical knowledge
  • Fitness enthusiasts interested in understanding the mechanics of upper limb movement
  • Artists looking to improve their anatomical accuracy in figure drawing or sculpture
  • Anyone with a general interest in human anatomy and how the body works

Real-World Applications

  1. Healthcare professionals can improve their patient care and diagnostic skills
  2. Fitness trainers can design more effective and safe exercise programs
  3. Artists can create more anatomically accurate representations of the human form
  4. Students can prepare for further studies in medicine, physical therapy, or related fields
  5. Individuals can better understand their own body mechanics and potential injuries

Syllabus

Week 1 – The Language of Anatomy

  • Overview
  • Anatomic Terminology and Limb Regions
  • Osteology and Skeletal Anatomy; Muscle Actions
  • Muscle Attachments; Planes of Motion

Week 2 – Innervation and Blood Supply of the Upper Limb

  • The Nervous System: Overview
  • The Brachial Plexus: Motor Innervation
  • The Brachial Plexus: Sensory Innervation; Blood Supply

Week 3 – The Scapula

  • Elevation and Depression
  • Protraction, Retraction, Medial Rotation, and Lateral Rotation

Week 4 – The Glenohumeral Joint

  • Structure of the Joint; Flexion and Extension
  • Abduction, Adduction, and the Rotator Cuff

Week 5 – The Elbow and Wrist

  • Elbow: Flexion, Extension, Supination, and Pronation
  • Wrist: Structure of the Joint; Flexion and Extension

Week 6 – The Hand

  • Bony Structure, the Carpal Tunnel, and Extrinsic Muscles of the Hand
  • Intrinsic Muscles of the Hand
  • Extrinsic and Intrinsic Muscles of the Thumb

This course offers a unique opportunity to gain in-depth knowledge of upper limb anatomy in a flexible, online format. Whether you're pursuing a career in healthcare, enhancing your professional skills, or simply satisfying your curiosity about the human body, this course will provide you with a solid foundation in upper limb anatomy that you can apply in various real-world contexts.