Directional Terminology

Question 1

Medial

Answer 1

Closer to the midline of the body

Question 2

Lateral

Answer 2

Further from the midline of the body

Question 3

Proximal

Answer 3

Closer to the torso of the body

EX: Shoulder is proximal to the elbow, which is proximal to the wrist, which is proximal to the fingers.

Question 4

Distal

Answer 4

Further from the torso of the body

EX: Finger is distal to the wrist, which is distal to the elbow, which is distal to the shoulder.

Question 5

Superior

Answer 5

Towards or above the head

Question 6

Inferior

Answer 6

Below or away from the head

Question 7

Anterior

Answer 7

Towards the front of the body

Question 8

Posterior

Answer 8

Towards the back of the body

Question 9

Anatomical Position

Answer 9

Standing in mountain pose. Palms forward, arms at your side.

Question 10

Ventral

Answer 10

Towards the front of the torso (on the front of the body)

Question 11

Dorsal

Answer 11

Towards the back of the torso (on the back of the body)

Question 12

Contralateral

Answer 12

Pertaining or relating to the opposite side

Question 13

Ipsilateral

Answer 13

On the same side

Question 14

Transverse

Answer 14

Horizontally across the body