anatomical position

The anatomical position is a standard position of the body used as a reference point in anatomy. In this position, the body is standing upright, facing forward, with arms at the sides and palms facing forward.

Anterior (or ventral) refers to the front side of the body. For example, the nose is anterior to the ears.

Posterior (or dorsal) refers to the back side of the body. For example, the spine is posterior to the stomach.

Superior refers to a position above or higher than another part of the body. For example, the head is superior to the shoulders.

Inferior refers to a position below or lower than another part of the body. For example, the feet are inferior to the knees.

Medial refers to a position closer to the midline of the body. For example, the nose is medial to the eyes.

Lateral refers to a position farther away from the midline of the body. For example, the ears are lateral to the eyes.

Proximal refers to a position closer to the point of attachment or origin. For example, the elbow is proximal to the wrist.

Distal refers to a position farther away from the point of attachment or origin. For example, the fingers are distal to the wrist.

The three main anatomical planes are: 1. Sagittal Plane (divides the body into left and right), 2. Coronal Plane (divides the body into anterior and posterior), 3. Transverse Plane (divides the body into superior and inferior).