“Introduction” in “Hands-on Anatomy”
Human anatomy is the cornerstone of nearly all health professions. A sound understanding of visuospatial relationships between anatomical structures allows a surgeon to deftly transplant an organ, a nurse to draw blood, and a physical therapist to design an exercise program targeting a specific muscle group. In any discipline in which an individual provides patient care, the constructs that guide clinical practice are often rooted in the foundational coursework that launches their academic journey. This text aims to be part of this foundation and introduce students to clinical skills while helping them review musculoskeletal anatomy.
In Hands-on Anatomy, the authors present an entry-level guide for students who are beginning to apply their anatomical knowledge to the human body. It is intended as a student’s initial exposure to clinical skills such as palpation and range of motion testing. It targets students in higher education, either at the undergraduate or graduate level, who have already had introductory anatomy courses. Through a regional approach, the most relevant skeletal landmarks, muscles, ligaments, and neurovascular structures are discussed, with a focus on how to palpate these structures. Additionally, guides on assessing the range of motion of joints are provided, along with descriptions of common clinical scenarios relating to each body area. Hands-on Anatomy intends to balance the depth of material provided in an introductory style for students and an approachable manner.
This textbook is divided into nine chapters. The first chapter contains background information on the topics covered throughout the text, as a refresh the student’s memory on terminology they’ve most likely seen before, such as anatomical planes and directional movements. Additionally, within the first chapter there is some guidance on how to approach assessing range of motion and on how to palpate structures with the recognition that the is most likely the first exposure the reader has had to these skills. Chapters 2 to 9 are divided by body region, covering the upper quarter, spine, lower quarter, and head and neck. Each chapter features a consistent delivery of anatomical landmarks through each region along with directions on how to palpate each structure and how to assess range of motion for the relevant joints. Rich images complement the content throughout to aid the reader with their visualization and palpation of the structures. Clinical correlations are included in each of these chapters to tie academia to clinical practice through an appreciation of human anatomy. Lastly, readers can test their retention of textbook content with summary questions that conclude each chapter.
No matter where you are on your academic journey, or what career trajectory you are on, the authors hope that Hands-on Anatomy will be a useful resource on your journey to becoming a health care professional.
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