DEFINITION OF THE COURSE
Lower Extremity Anatomy includes the study of normal structure plus certain common and clinically important variations. It is taught over twenty-four weeks, to allow students the opportunity to learn both details of structure and the relationships among the structures of the lower limb. Part of the material is presented systemically and part of it regionally. The subject is taught through both lecture and dissection. Clinicians are invited to give lectures explaining the clinical relevance of the material.
OBJECTIVES OF THE COURSE
Upon satisfactory completion of this course, students will be able to accurately describe all major structures of the lower limb, state their relationships, and explain their basic functions. In addition, students will also be able to describe and explain the functional significance of certain common variations in lower extremity anatomy. The students will be able to demonstrate this knowledge by solving basic functional and clinical problems encountered in course examinations.
PURPOSE OF THE COURSE
A detailed knowledge of the anatomy of the lower extremity is a prerequisite for many other courses. It provides students with the specific knowledge essential for understanding podiatric surgery, radiology, orthopedics, and biomechanics. It also facilitates the learning of pathology, where deviations from normal anatomy will be encountered.