This will be added to as well so please check back throughout the summer!!!!

Welcome to the Short Functional Anatomy Course Outline! This course has been designed to help you prepare for your upcoming module in anatomy, which is a core component of all sports therapy and rehabilitation programmes. We understand that transitioning to degree-level work can be challenging, and this extra preparation is intended to support you through this important phase.

Functional anatomy forms the foundation of your understanding of how the body moves and functions, which is crucial for effective sports therapy and rehabilitation. Some of you might already be familiar with the basics, while others might find this entirely new. Regardless of your current level of knowledge, this course aims to bridge any gaps and reinforce your understanding to ensure you are well-prepared for your degree.

Through this course, you will explore key concepts, terminology, and systems related to functional anatomy. We will cover everything from basic anatomical terminology to the skeletal, muscular, systems focusing on their roles in movement and function.

Interactive elements such as quizzes, diagrams, videos, and case studies will help reinforce your learning and make the material engaging.

We encourage you to take full advantage of this preparatory work. By investing time now, you will build a strong foundation that will greatly benefit you in your studies and future career in sports therapy and rehabilitation.

Open-Packed and Closed-Packed Positions of Joints
Understanding the concepts of open-packed and closed-packed positions of joints is crucial for anyone studying functional anatomy, especially in the fields of sports therapy and rehabilitation. These positions describe the different states of a joint based on the relative positioning of its articular surfaces, and they have significant implications for joint stability and mobility.

Open-Packed Position
The open-packed position, also known as the loose-packed position, is the state of a joint where its articular surfaces are least congruent. In this position, the joint capsule and ligaments are at their slackest, allowing for the greatest amount of joint play and movement. This position is typically where the joint is the least stable but most mobile.

Examples:

Shoulder (Glenohumeral Joint): The open-packed position is approximately 55 degrees of abduction and 30 degrees of horizontal adduction. In this position, the joint surfaces are not fully congruent, allowing for maximal movement, which is important for functional tasks such as reaching and throwing.

Knee (Tibiofemoral Joint): The open-packed position is about 25 degrees of knee flexion. This is the position often used for initial assessments and treatments because it allows for the greatest amount of joint play.

Closed-Packed Position
The closed-packed position is the state of a joint where its articular surfaces are most congruent. In this position, the joint capsule and ligaments are maximally taut, providing the greatest stability. Movement in this position is limited because the joint is at its most secure and locked configuration.

Examples:

Shoulder (Glenohumeral Joint): The closed-packed position is full abduction and external rotation. In this position, the joint is at its most stable, which is important for activities requiring joint stability such as holding and lifting weights.
Knee (Tibiofemoral Joint): The closed-packed position is full extension with external rotation of the tibia. This position is highly stable, which is crucial for weight-bearing activities like standing and walking.
Practical Implications
Assessment and Treatment: Understanding these positions helps clinicians assess joint function and determine appropriate treatment positions. For instance, mobilizations are often performed in the open-packed position to maximize joint play.
Injury Prevention: Knowing the stability of a joint in various positions can help in designing rehabilitation programs that avoid placing joints in vulnerable positions, reducing the risk of injury.
Performance Enhancement: Athletes can be trained to maximize joint stability and mobility by understanding and optimizing these positions for their specific sports.
By understanding the open-packed and closed-packed positions of joints, you can better assess, treat, and train individuals, enhancing their overall joint health and functional performance.