This book is a concise, illustrated guide to the anatomy, physiology, well-being, and disorders of the human skeletal and muscular systems. It has been written and illustrated specially for students and laypeople interested in medicine, health, fitness, and first aid. The subject is dealt with in clear steps, so that the reader can steadily acquire a good overall understanding. Explanatory texts, diagrams, illustrations, captions, and fact boxes are combined to help readers grasp important information at a glance. A glossary of scientific and jargon words defines medical terms in everyday language. A list of Web sites, provides links to other relevant sources of information, and the index enables quick access to articles.
Contents
Introduction: About This Book 4
SECTION 1
BODY SYSTEMS
Introduction 6
Parts of the skeletal system 8
Skeletal key words and diagrams 10
Bone types and development 12
Bone and cartilage structure 14
Muscle system 16
Muscle features and key words 18
Muscle layers - superficial 20
Deep muscles and motor units 22
Muscle contractions and names 24
Muscle attachments and fibers 26
Skeleton and muscle care 28
Fitness and exercise 30
Skeletal disorders 32
Muscular disorders 34
SECTION 2
HEAD & SPINE
Introduction 36
Vertebrae 38
Pelvic girdle 40
Mouth, jaws, and teeth 42
Head muscles 44
Spinal muscles 46
Pelvic and lower back muscles 48
Relaxing the neck and back 50
Strengthening the neck and back 52
SECTION 3
CHEST & ABDOMEN
Introduction 54
Chest muscles 56
Abdomen muscles 58
Isometric exercises 60
Strengthening exercises 62
SECTION 4
ARMS & SHOULDERS
Introduction 64
Shoulder muscles 66
Arm muscles 68
Wrist and hand muscles 70
Exercises and disorders 72
SECTION 5
LEGS & FEET
Introduction 74
Leg muscles 76
Foot bones and muscles 78
Exercises - legs and feet 80
Leg disorders 82
Foot disorders 84
SECTION 6
JOINTS
Introduction 86
Joint types 88
Joint movements 1 90
Joint movements 2 92
Joint mobility exercises 94
Posture problems and exercises 96
Joint disorders 1 98
Joint disorders 2 100
Glossary 102
Websites to Visit 108
Index 109
