Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology

Understanding Your Body

• Simple actions (e.g., moving, breathing) are incredibly complex.
• Your body is a system of systems working together.
• Fun facts:
  • Intestines stretched out = 3-story building height.
  • Lifetime saliva production = more than one swimming pool.
  • Lose about 50 kg of dead skin cells in a lifetime.

Disciplines of Anatomy and Physiology

• Anatomy: Study of the structure and relationships between body parts.
• Physiology: Science of how body parts function and sustain life.
• These fields are about understanding life, diseases, and recovery.
• Interdisciplinary: Involves chemistry and physics.

History

• Historical taboo on human dissection.
• Anatomy Act of 1832 legalized use of corpses from executed murderers for study.
• Today, cadavers are used legally in education; they are donated.

Principles of Anatomy and Physiology

• Complementarity of Structure and Function: Function reflects form.
  • E.g., blood flow in the heart is directionally controlled by valves.
  • Bones protect and support due to their strength and solidity.

Levels of Organization

1. Atoms and Molecules
   • Basis of all structures, covered in chemistry.
2. Cells
   • Fundamental life units, vary in size and shape.
   • Examples: Red blood cells vs. motor neurons.
3. Tissues
   • Group of similar cells.
   • Types: Muscular, nervous, connective, epithelial.
4. Organs
   • Combinations of tissues performing specific functions.
5. Organ Systems
   • Organs working together, e.g., digestive system.
6. Organism
   • A complete being made of organized cells.

Homeostasis

• Ability to maintain stable internal conditions.
• Essential for survival; imbalance leads to death.
• Relates to energy and material balance (blood pressure, temperature, etc.).

Anatomical Language

• Standardized directional terms for body part location.
  • Anatomical Position: Body erect, face forward, arms at sides, palms forward.
  • Planes: Sagittal, parasagittal, frontal, transverse.
  • Axial vs. Appendicular Parts: Axial (head, neck, trunk) vs. appendages (arms, legs).
  • Directional Terms:
    • Anterior/Ventral vs. Posterior/Dorsal
    • Superior/Cranial vs. Inferior/Caudal
    • Medial vs. Lateral
    • Proximal vs. Distal

Conclusion

• Anatomy studies structure; physiology explains function.
• Central principles include complementarity, hierarchy of organization, and homeostasis.
• Anatomical terminology is crucial for precise communication in medicine.
• Thank you to content creators and supporters for making learning accessible.