Generally life sized or full sized human anatomical models of the whole body or the specific systems within the body are most commonly used in teaching hospitals and lecture type situations. However in some physician's offices where spinal injuries and skeletal health concerns are the focus, having a life sized anatomical model of the body can be very helpful.

Choosing either a pelvic mounted or head mounted anatomical model is an important consideration. The pelvic mount does allow for more precise and clear demonstration of how the spine moves and flexes, along with how that impacts on the rest of the skeletal structure. A head mount anatomical model can be easier to work on with lower body skeletal issues.

Miniature or mini anatomical models are about half the size of full sized options and are easy to keep in examination rooms and offices. They may also be ideal for classroom situations, especially if you want to have several for students to work with. It may also be an option to have at least one full sized and one miniature, allowing the greatest flexibility for your teaching and patient care needs.

Are there options for smaller, individual systems models?

There are many situations when a full sized or even a miniature anatomical model is just not practical or isn't specific enough. For these types of occasions there are very unique and specific types of anatomical models that focus in on only one system within the human body. The brain and the digestive system are commonly used in doctor's offices but also in teaching programs for those in general sciences or specific medical classes.

Smaller anatomical models of the teeth, mouth and jaws as well as the brain and the skull are very popular for dentist's offices, teaching classrooms as well as anthropology departments. The skull models are particularly unique as they featured different anthropological skull discoveries in life sized and perfect detailed options.

What details are typically found on different types of human anatomical models?

There are two different options when selecting a human anatomical model. These include the models fully assembled and mounted or those that are disarticulated or come disassembled for easy handling and viewing. These disarticulated skeletons generally are either full or half skeletons and come labeled and numbered for easy identification of structures. Hands and feet may be wired together or one wired and one disarticulated for easy study and comparison. Other options for anatomical models include color coding or painting of half of the side of the skeleton to indicate where muscles attach and originate. This is important for both students as well as doctors to be able to use.

Specialized orthopedic skeletons and anatomical models are ideal for chiropractors, doctors and teaching facilities. These skeletons also show the soft muscle tissues, ligaments and major nerves and blood vessels. This level of detail helps both students and patients understand how the body system works as well as how skeletal health impacts on all aspects of movement.