Introduction to Human Anatomy & Physiology

Anatomy is the study of body structures and their relationships, while physiology focuses on how the body and its parts function. These fields are inseparable because form follows function—the structure of any body part is designed specifically for its purpose.

The human hand perfectly demonstrates this relationship. Its numerous bones allow for varied movements, while opposable thumbs enable gripping. Sensory neurons in fingertips provide our sense of touch, and fingernails offer both protection and a hard surface for manipulation.

When studying the body, we use standard references like the anatomical position: standing erect with feet together, palms forward, and looking forward. This gives us consistent terminology for describing body parts: distal (farther from attachment), proximal (closer to attachment), superior/cranial (toward the head), and inferior/caudal (toward the feet). Other important terms include lateral (away from midline), medial (toward midline), anterior/ventral (front), and posterior/dorsal (back).

Did you know? Anatomical planes help us visualize body sections: the transverse plane divides the body into top and bottom sections, the sagittal plane splits it into left and right, and the frontal (coronal) plane separates front from back.