Human Locomotor Systems (ANAT30007)

Intended learning outcomes

Upon completion of this subject, students will:

develop observational and organisational skills to interpret exposed anatomical structures and regions of the back, neck and limbs; written and oral communication skills to describe normal and impaired anatomical structures of the human locomotor system.

• comprehend the organisation of the human locomotor system; the factors responsible for stability of the vertebral column and head; the functional anatomy of the back, neck and limbs; the organisation of the bones, joints, muscles, fascia, nerves and vessels of the neck, back, upper and lower limbs; radiological anatomy of the back, neck and limbs; gait and locomotion in primates and humans; central nervous system control of movement; and the design and reconstruction of artificial joints and limbs;
• appreciate the mechanical, clinical, radiological, evolutionary and forensic applications of human locomotor anatomy;
• manipulate dissecting instruments to differentiate and describe the muscle belly, tendons, proximal and distal attachment of all major muscles of the trunk and extremities; locate major ligaments and articular capsules of the major joints of the trunk and extremities; describe the shape of the joint surfaces and relate this to the type of joint, degrees of freedom, and possible motions parallel with the cardinal planes; distinguish and define the major arteries and veins of the back, neck and limbs; recognize and locate all major nerves and plexi of the locomotor system; distinguish and describe on models and prosections, bony, ligamentous, muscular, tendinous, nervous and vascular structures.

Generic skills

• Capacity for independent study, rational enquiry and self-directed learning.
• Ability to analyse problems.
• Oral and written communication skills.
• Time management skills.
• Teamwork in interpretation and analysis of new information.