#Anatomy December 1

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Starting December 2023, we are introducing the “30-Day ANATOMY Coach4aday Challenge.” During this challenge, participants will select a bone or muscle in the human body, providing details about its location and physiological significance.

When I state we are introducing the 49th consecutive monthly challenge of course I am referring to Jeff Neelon and Jaclyn Donovan who will be joining me. For the record this challenge will be in Jaclyn’s wheelhouse since she is Certified Athletic Trainer.

How the Challenge Works

1. Identify one anatomical part of the body.
2. Describe what its purpose is.
3. Describe where it is located.

Post on any social media platform using the #Coach4adayChallenge

Facts to Keep in Mind

Yes, Jaclyn will be in her comfort zone but for the rest of us this is a chance to learn about our bodies. Trust me there is a lot each of us can learn about how the anatomy of our bodies operate and function When it comes to bones, muscles, and systems in the human body consider these facts.

BONES: Most of us have 206 bones. However, this number can vary slightly from person to person due to differences in the number of small bones called sesamoid bones, which can be found near joints and are not always present in everyone.

MUSCLES: The human body has over 600 individual muscles, which are often grouped together based on their location and function.

ORGAN SYSTEMS: Besides bones and muscles, several other organ systems make up the anatomy of the human body.

Here are some key organ systems:

1. Organs: Organs are composed of different tissues and perform specific functions. Examples include the heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, and brain.
2. Tissues: Tissues are groups of cells with similar structures and functions. There are four primary types of tissues: epithelial, connective, muscle, and nervous tissues.
3. Circulatory System: This system includes the heart, blood vessels, and blood.
4. Respiratory System: Comprising the lungs and airways, the respiratory system facilitates the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide, supporting cellular function.
5. Digestive System: This system involves organs such as the stomach, intestines, and liver, which work together to break down and absorb nutrients from food.
6. Nervous System: The nervous system includes the brain, spinal cord, and nerves.
7. Endocrine System: Comprising glands such as the pituitary and thyroid, the endocrine system produces hormones that regulate various physiological processes, including metabolism, growth, and reproduction.
8. Immune System: This system defends the body against pathogens and foreign substances.

December 1st Anatomical Challenge of the Day-Patella

What: Patella-It’s the biggest bone in our body embedded in a tendon (a sesamoid bone).

Purpose: Our patella(s) helps our quadriceps muscle move our leg, protects the knee joint, and supports lots of important muscles, tendons and ligaments.

Location: Often called the kneecap-we have two of them one on each leg.

Here is a diagram of a right knee with the Patella located underneath the Quadriceps Tendon and above the Patellar Tendon.