- Anatomy is the study of the structures of an organism, such as those of the human body. A person who studies anatomy is interested in the physical structures, the organs, the tissues and the elements which compose an organism. Gross anatomy describes anything which can be seen with the naked eye. Tissue anatomy, by contrast, often requires the use of a microscope. An anatomist may study the structures which go into specialized issue such as nerve fiber or skin, or may study the microscopic structures of the individual cell.
- Physiology is the study of the function of structures within an organism. A student who studies physiology is interested in how the organs function and how they make the organism function. For example, the student may examine how the heart functions as a pump and how the circulatory system works with the heart to distribute blood throughout the body. The student may also examine how the lungs function with the circulatory system to exchange waste and oxygen.
- Studying anatomy without an understanding of physiology would be like studying the components of a bridge without understanding how they work together to span a river. Understanding the structure of the bridge or of the individual parts does not explain the mechanics of how the steel cables help the concrete stay strong enough to allow cars and trucks to drive across. Understanding what the heart is made of does not explain how it pumps blood.
- At the same time, understanding how the heat pumps blood is impossible if you do not understand how the unique tissues of the heart are built. Look at the bridge again. A student cannot understand what makes the steel cable strong without understanding how the steel cable is made. The same applies to the study of physiology. Understanding how the heart pumps blood is not possible without an understanding of the tissue types that make up the heart.
- Anatomy and physiology are important to anyone entering the medical or health and fitness fields, including doctors, nurses, physical therapists, massage therapists and paramedics. Some need more detailed information, while others can get by with an understanding of basic concepts.
