PennX: Going Out on a Limb: Anatomy of the Upper Limb

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

Healthcare professionals can improve their patient care and diagnostic skills
Fitness trainers can design more effective and safe exercise programs
Artists can create more anatomically accurate representations of the human form
Students can prepare for further studies in medicine, physical therapy, or related fields
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.