Anatomical Terminology - Directional Terms PDF

Topic 2 Part 1: Anatomical Terminology – Directional Terms Anatomical Position Anatomical Position To further increase precision, anatomists standardize the way in which they view the body. Just as maps are normally oriented with north at the top, the standard body “map,” or anatomical position,...

Topic 2 Part 1: Anatomical Terminology – Directional Terms Anatomical Position Anatomical Position To further increase precision, anatomists standardize the way in which they view the body. Just as maps are normally oriented with north at the top, the standard body “map,” or anatomical position, is that of the body standing upright, with the feet at shoulder width and parallel, toes forward. The upper limbs are held out to each side, and the palms of the hands face forward as illustrated in Figure 1.13 (next slide). Using this standard position reduces confusion. It does not matter how the body being described is oriented, the terms are used as if it is in anatomical position. For example, a scar in the “anterior (front) carpal (wrist) region” would be present on the palm side of the wrist. The term “anterior” would be used even if the hand were palm down on a table.  Directional Terms Anterior (or ventral): Describes the front or direction toward the front of the body. The toes are anterior to the foot. Posterior (or dorsal): Describes the back or direction toward the back of the body. The back is posterior to the abdomen. Superior (or cranial): Describes a position above or higher than another part of the body proper. The eyes are superior to the mouth. Inferior (or caudal): Describes a position below or lower than another part of the body proper; near or toward the tail (in humans, the coccyx, or lowest part of the spinal column). The pelvis is inferior to the abdomen. Lateral: Describes the side or direction toward the side of the body. The thumb (pollex) is lateral to the digits. Medial: Describes the middle or direction toward the middle of the body. The hallux (big toe) is the most medial toe. Figure 1.13 Directional Terms Applied to the Human Body Paired directional terms are shown as applied to the human body.  Directional Terms Proximal: Describes a position in a limb that is nearer to the point of attachment or the trunk of the body. The elbow is proximal to the wrist. Distal: Describes a position in a limb that is farther from the point of attachment or the trunk of the body. The ankle is distal to the knee. Superficial: Describes a position closer to the surface of the body. The skin is superficial to the bones. Deep: Describes a position farther from the surface of the body. The brain is deep to the skull. Unilateral : situated on or affecting only one side of the body Bilateral: situated on or affecting the both sides of the body Ipsilateral: situated on or affecting the same side of the body Contralateral: situated on or affecting the opposite side of the body Figure 1.13 Directional Terms Applied to the Human Body Paired directional terms are shown as applied to the human body. superficial muscles deep muscles (superficial muscles removed)