Navigating the complexities of Anatomy, Physiology, and Biomechanics classes is a challenge most students in health-related fields face. With an overwhelming amount of abbreviations, complex diagrams, and concepts to understand, it’s easy to see why students might feel daunted.
However, these subjects are foundational to more specialized programs such as physical therapy school, and you’ll need to pass them to succeed in your academic and professional goals. This guide will help you master some of these complex topics.
The Challenge in Physical Therapy Schools
Physical therapy is a demanding field that requires a deep and comprehensive understanding of the inner workings of the body. The rigorous curriculum of physical therapy school involves diving deep into Anatomy, Physiology, and Biomechanics, making them challenging yet indispensable subjects.
1. Understand the Big Picture
When it comes to these subjects, one thing is clear: trees are just as important as the forest. In other words, you need to understand the big picture before zeroing in on the specifics. This is like drawing a rough sketch before you start painting the details.
For instance, when studying the cardiovascular system, get an overall understanding of its role, components, and how they interact before diving into the specifics of artery and vein structures. A broad perspective provides a framework that can help organize the information and make it easier to link details subsequently.
2. Use Flashcards for Reinforced Memory
Flashcards help make complex materials manageable through focused repetition, converting daunting chapters into digestible facts. Try creating flashcards for different parts of the body, muscle functions, or physiological processes.
This makes it easier to recall individual facts during exams and is an effective way to make short study sessions productive. You can easily review a set of flashcards while in line for coffee or during a TV commercial break. There are valuable resources where you can find pre-made flashcards or digital platforms to create your own flashcards.
3. Actively Participate in Lab Exercises
Truly understanding Anatomy, Physiology, and Biomechanics goes beyond textbook knowledge. Hands-on experience is crucial. Physical therapy school lab exercises provide the direct application of theoretical knowledge to practical exercises. Actively participating in these labs can help reinforce complex concepts, affirming the link between theory and practice.
For instance, dissecting a cadaver in anatomy can offer real-life insights into the body’s internal structures, boosting your understanding. Also, it’s more likely you will remember that the heart is toward the left side of the chest when you’ve actually seen it, rather than reading it in a book.
4. Leverage Visual Learning Tools
Painting vivid mental pictures is an excellent strategy for tackling Anatomy, Physiology, and Biomechanics. Enter the world of visual learning tools, your trusty accomplices in this journey. From illustrated diagrams to interactive 3D models and detailed videos, these tools can bring these subjects to life, making complex structures and functions seem more tangible.
Websites like BioDigital and AnatomyLearning offer excellent 3D visualizations, while YouTube channels such as Khan Academy offer a wealth of informative videos. So, allow these tools to show you the marvels of the human body in a way that textbooks may not match.
5. Consistent Revision
Consistency is key in every discipline, but it is absolutely essential when it comes to Anatomy, Physiology, and Biomechanics. These subjects are progressive, meaning one understanding builds upon another. Make a habit of regularly reviewing the material you have covered.
Be proactive and use different revision techniques like spaced repetition, where you review material at intervals, or teaching others, which can clarify your own understanding. Recalling information firms it up in your memory and exposes gaps in your understanding, allowing you to focus your further study efforts.
6. Set Realistic Study Goals
Does it feel like you’re climbing a mountain without reaching the peak? Well, you are not alone! Setting realistic study goals can help. Break down your study material into smaller, manageable chunks and establish achievable goals for each study session.
For instance, you might aim to understand the main muscle groups in one session, and their associated physiology in the next. This approach will also give you a clear sense of progress and accomplishment, making your study efforts feel rewarding rather than overwhelming.
Mastering the Journey Through Anatomy, Physiology, and Biomechanics
Anatomy, Physiology, and Biomechanics might seem like huge, insurmountable mountains, but with the right gear and a guided path, you can safely ascend and relish the view from the summit. The key is to find the study techniques that best suit you, and adapt them as needed.
Remember to treat every roadblock as an opportunity to learn and every accomplishment as an affirmation of your capacity. With determination, strategic effort, and a little positivity, you can master these subjects and pave your path to a successful career in physical therapy.
