The human foot and the human hand

In this lively lecture‑turned‑book the author unpacks the hidden engineering of the human foot, guiding listeners through the bones, ligaments and arches that let us stand, walk and run. He draws vivid parallels with animal limbs—from the horse’s sturdy leg to the elephant’s massive foot—highlighting both shared patterns and striking differences. The discussion also touches on common ailments such as flat feet and sprains, and even how cultural practices, like high‑heeled shoes, reshape the structure over a lifetime.

Turning to the hand, the narrative shifts to the marvel of our most expressive tool. Detailed yet accessible, it explains how the wrist, fingers and thumb cooperate to grip, write and manipulate objects, while linking these motions to the brain’s will and the sense of touch. Comparative notes on primate hands and the skin’s sensory landscape add depth, making the science feel both personal and universally fascinating.