Anatomical Terminology
When discussing the human body, we start with the anatomical position - standing upright with palms facing forward. This standard reference position helps everyone use the same directional terms. Two common body positions you'll encounter are prone face−down and supine face−up.
Directional terms help pinpoint exact locations. Anterior refers to the front of the body, while posterior means the back. When describing parts above or below, use superior (toward the head) and inferior (toward the feet). For limbs, proximal means closer to where the limb attaches to the body, while distal means further away.
The body can be divided by four anatomical planes that create cross-sections. The sagittal plane cuts lengthwise and divides the body into left and right portions mid−sagittalifthroughthemidline,parasagittalifnot. The frontal plane creates anterior and posterior sections, while the transverse plane creates superior and inferior sections. Any diagonal section is called an oblique plane.
Quick Tip: Remember medial vs. lateral by thinking of the "middle" - medial means toward the midline of the body, while lateral means away from it or toward the side.