The Concise Book of Muscles

Synopsis

'The Concise Book of Muscles' brings the major muscles of the body to life through the use of three-dimensional illustrations drawn by a medical illustrator, thus helping the reader to get 'inside' the muscle and understand how it functions.

Summary

Chapter 1: Introduction to Muscles

This chapter provides a brief overview of the muscular system, including its functions, types of muscles, and basic anatomy.

* Real example: The biceps brachii muscle in the upper arm is a skeletal muscle that helps to flex the elbow.

Chapter 2: Muscles of the Head and Neck

This chapter covers the muscles of the head and neck, including facial muscles, neck muscles, and muscles of the jaw and tongue.

* Real example: The masseter muscle is a jaw muscle that helps to close the jaw and grind food.

Chapter 3: Muscles of the Torso

This chapter discusses the muscles of the trunk, including the abdominal muscles, back muscles, and muscles of the chest and shoulders.

* Real example: The rectus abdominis muscle is an abdominal muscle that helps to flex the spine and stabilize the torso.

Chapter 4: Muscles of the Upper Extremities

This chapter examines the muscles of the shoulder, arm, forearm, and hand.

* Real example: The deltoid muscle is a shoulder muscle that helps to abduct (raise) the arm laterally.

Chapter 5: Muscles of the Lower Extremities

This chapter covers the muscles of the hip, thigh, leg, and foot.

* Real example: The quadriceps femoris muscle group in the thigh helps to extend the knee and stabilize the patella.

Chapter 6: Muscle Physiology

This chapter delves into the physiological mechanisms underlying muscle function, including muscle contraction, energy metabolism, and muscle fatigue.

* Real example: The release of calcium ions during muscle contraction triggers the interaction of actin and myosin filaments, leading to muscle shortening.

Chapter 7: Muscle Training and Rehabilitation

This chapter explores the principles of muscle training and rehabilitation, including exercise prescription, injury prevention, and treatment protocols.

* Real example: Resistance training exercises, such as weightlifting or bodyweight exercises, can help to increase muscle mass and strength.

Chapter 8: Clinical Conditions

This chapter discusses common clinical conditions affecting the muscular system, such as muscular dystrophy, myasthenia gravis, and muscle strains.

* Real example: Muscular dystrophy is a group of genetic disorders that cause progressive muscle weakness and degeneration.

Chapter 9: Special Topics

This chapter covers advanced topics related to muscle health, including nutrition for muscle growth, performance-enhancing supplements, and the role of muscles in body movement.

* Real example: Consuming adequate protein and carbohydrates helps to support muscle growth and recovery after exercise.