Learn human anatomy
What is human anatomy?
Human anatomy involves the study of the bones, joints, muscles, and other systems within the human body. With each component serving a specific function, it’s important to not only understand those functions, but how they impact other parts of the body. For example, a practitioner treating a bacterial infection with penicillin risks causing a serious allergic reaction in their patient. While the drug itself is not harmful, it can become dangerous within a body that does not have the necessary immune response.
Other professions that rely on knowledge of human anatomy include chiropractors, who focus primarily on alignment within the bone and muscle systems; physical therapists, who specialize in enhancing functional performance through their understanding of how systems work together; and even dentists, who can use information from a patient’s oral exams to diagnose issues elsewhere in the body.
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Human anatomy courses and curriculum
To learn human anatomy, it can be helpful to start with the basics. An introductory course may cover human anatomical structures and systems, common musculoskeletal injuries, and the basic anatomy of the major organ systems. Depending on your desired field or role, you may find it helpful to take a course that examines the parts of the body from the perspective of a healthcare professional. By building a solid foundation in anatomy, learners prepare for exciting careers in a number of fields.
Careers in human anatomy
The better we understand how the human body works, the better we can treat diseases, prevent injuries, and develop solutions for chronic illnesses. And, new technologies and treatments are improving how effective humans are at addressing those issues. Whether learners want to pursue a career in the healthcare field or want to become a researcher focused on human anatomy, building foundational knowledge can be the first step toward an exciting career. Start studying human anatomy today with online courses delivered through edX.