Within the field of functional anatomy the classical topographical approach has developed into an approach in which muscles are seen as isolated, and relatively independent units, which has had a major effect on the currently available biomechanical models and on clinical reasoning.
Although the approach has been very successful, it has also been shown to be too simple in some aspects: recent experimental and modeling studies have led to the insight that the way our muscles bring about movements cannot fully be described by considering them as isolated contractile elements and springs and dampers. Instead, forces that muscles can exert are under some circumstances substantially influenced by interaction with non-muscular structures (e.g. fascia) and other muscles. You will be confronted with both approaches: starting from the classical approach, during the course you will be confronted with the more extensive integrative approach.
A second important element in this course is the interaction between expectation and observation: as in all disciplines, in anatomy, the expectation of what is relevant strongly influences (and of course still does) dissection results. You will experience this first hand during the dissection practicals in which you do hands-on dissection on conserved human material.
! Course terms and conditions:
- To ensure a relatively coherent entry level, this course is only open for students WITHOUT a (extended) background in (musculoskeletal) anatomy;
- Students following the Human Movement Sciences or Medicine BSc programs will NOT be admitted;
- Surface anatomy in which structures will be palpated on each other’s bodies forms part of this course;
- Attendance for all lectures, practicals and symposia is mandatory.
For more information and course details, go to 'Curriculum' at the top of the page.