Anatomical Concepts Flashcards
Describe anatomical position and what it is used for
- Standard reference position that directional terms are based on
- Standing upright, feet shoulder width apart, palms facing forward, arms by side
Anterior
Towards the front of the body
Posterior
Towards the back of the body
Lateral
Away from the midline of the body
Medial
Towards the midline of the body
Distal
Further from the origin of a limb or other structure
Proximal
Closer to the origin of a limb or other structure
Superficial
Closer to the surface of the skin
Deep
Further from the surface of the skin
Superior
Above
Inferior
Below
Cranial
Towards the cranium (skull)
Caudal
Towards the ‘tail’ (lower back area)
Rostral
Closer to the ‘front beak’ (nose)
Occipital
Closer to the back of the head
Plantar
Pertaining to the plantar surface (underside) of the foot
Palmar
Pertaining to the palm of the hand
Internal
Inside
External
Outside