The primary aspect to a proper understanding of human function is that one “Form Follows Function”. If you understand the functional demands required, then you will be able to understand the human “form” (anatomical, physiolgical, biopsychsocial) that would be necessary. This is based on one of the most well-studied physiological principles that we have: Specific Adaptation to Imposed Demands. A real-world example of SAID is an astronaut. When subjected to decreased gravitational loads in space, an astronaut adapts appropriately with a decrease in bone density and muscular strength. There is no need for it, and thus the physiology and anatomy adapt accordingly. But when the astronaut returns to earth, the reverse occurs. Over a relatively short period of time, the body adapts to the increased gravitational demands.

The value of this in anatomy and physiology is that if we know what the structure or process must do functionally, then it becomes much easier to understand what the anatomy will look like and how it would be “built”. Assessment processes would be developed around assessing components of function.

Understanding the mechanical structure and function of the human body is very straightforward!

Anatomy notes:
Lower Extremity
Upper Extremity
Spine
Mindmap

Physiology notes:
Tissue Repair And Remodelling