Morphological and functional basisModule Anatomy
Academic Year 2025/2026 - Teacher: SALVATORE GIUNTAExpected Learning Outcomes
D1 – Knowledge and understanding
The student has a systematic knowledge of the structural organization of the human body, with particular focus on the musculoskeletal system and the main organ systems. The student understands the structural and functional relationships relevant to physiotherapy practice.
D2 – Applying knowledge and understanding
The student is able to identify and describe anatomical structures involved in human movement and posture, and to apply anatomical knowledge to the observation and functional assessment of the patient.
D3 – Making judgements
The student can integrate anatomical, physiological, and clinical knowledge to interpret body functions and recognize structural alterations. They demonstrate critical thinking and awareness of the limits of their own knowledge.
D4 – Communication skills
The student correctly uses international anatomical terminology and is able to communicate clearly and appropriately with teachers, peers, and other healthcare professionals.
D5 – Learning skills
The student is capable of independently deepening their understanding of human anatomy through textbooks, atlases, and digital resources, developing a study method that supports lifelong learning and professional development.
Course Structure
Required Prerequisites
Attendance of Lessons
Detailed Course Content
General: General morphology of the human body. Study criteria of Systematic and Topographical Anatomy. Clinical anatomical terminology. Functional characteristics and constituent organs of the apparatus and systems of the human body. Hollow organs and full organs. Topographical organization of the human body.
Locomotor system: Generalities on the bones. Generalities and classification of the joints. Characteristics and classification of Synarthrosis and Diarthrosis. Types of movement of Diarthrosis. General characteristics of skeletal muscles and classification criteria.
Skull: Neurocranium and splanchnocranium. Anterior, lateral and posterior surface of the skull. Internal and external surface of the cranial vault. Internal and external surface of the skull base, with particular regard to the vascular-nerve holes. Temporo-mandibular joint. Muscles of the head: chewing muscles, hints on mimic muscles and related bands. Hyoid bone.
Vertebral column: structure of the vertebra type; regional characteristics of the vertebrae; spine as a whole and physiological curves. Spinal joints. Cranio-vertebral joints. Muscles and fascias of the neck. Rib cage: ribs, sternum and joints. Chest muscles: intrinsic and thoraco-appendicular muscles. Back muscles: spino-appendicular, spino-costal and generalities on the deep muscles of the back.
Pelvis: bones, joints, muscles and bands of the wall of the abdomen and pelvis.
Upper limb: skeleton, joints and muscles.
Lower limb: skeleton, joints and muscles.
Structure and function of the following devices:
Cardiovascular system
Lymphatic system
Integumentary system
Digestive system
Respiratory system
Urinary system
Nervous system
Endocrine system
Genital system
Nervous system
Textbook Information
English version of:
1. Anatomia Umana G. Anastasi et al., Edi-Ermes, Milano (volume 1 - Anatomia I).
2. ANATOMIA - FONDAMENTI - Edi-Ermes, Milano.
Atlas
1. Atlante di Anatomia Umana Sobotta, R. Putz, R. Pabst – Elsevier Masson (3 vol.)
2. Atlante di Anatomia Umana Frank H. Netter – Masson (1 volume)
3. Atlante Virtual Campus G. Anastasi, Ediermes. (3 Vol).
Learning Assessment
Learning Assessment Procedures
The assessment of the knowledge and skills acquired is based on tests designed to verify the achievement of the intended learning outcomes in relation to the Dublin Descriptors:
D1 – Knowledge and understanding:
Assessed through an oral examination aimed at verifying the student’s knowledge of the anatomical organization of the main apparatuses and systems of the human body.
D2 – Applying knowledge and understanding:
Evaluated through the analysis of anatomical images, models, and functional cases to assess the ability to recognize structures and anatomo-functional relationships.
D3 – Making judgements:
Verified through questions or case discussions requiring the integration of anatomical, physiological, and clinical knowledge, and the formulation of critical and reasoned evaluations.
D4 – Communication skills:
Observed during the oral examination or practical activities, assessing the appropriate use of anatomical terminology and the clarity of expression.
D5 – Learning skills:
Evaluated by considering the student’s ability to integrate knowledge from different sources and to update their understanding autonomously throughout the course.
Evaluation criteria
The examination is passed if the student demonstrates:
- Mastery of the fundamental concepts of human anatomy;
- Ability to apply such knowledge to physiotherapy practice;
- Correct and precise technical language;
- Autonomy of reasoning and synthesis skills.
Examples of frequently asked questions and / or exercises
Describe the following joints: Scapulo-humeral, coxo-femoral, elbow, knee, tibio-tarsal.
Describe the following muscles (Origin, insertion and action): Brachial biceps, Ulnar flexor of the carpus, Gluteus maximus, Triceps of the sura.
Indicate the correct anatomical succession of the organs that make up the following systems: Digestive, Respiratory, Urinary, Genital.