Anatomical Direction

Anatomical Position

Anatomical position is the reference point for the body: feet are apart, body straight, palms forward, thumbs away from the body.

Why is it important?

It is a universal position for describing varying positions of body parts or structures. It is clear to understand.

What is the difference between proximal/distal and inferior/superior?

Inferior/superior refers to the distance away/toward the head or simply below/above something. Proximal/distal references farther/closer away from the origin or point of attachment. 

Transverse Plane

This cuts the body into inferior and superior portions. The cut is made horizontally along the inguinal and antebrachial regions. 

Midsagittal Plane

This cuts the body down the midline creating left and right halves. The cut is made vertically through the nasal, oral, vertebral, axillary regions and down to the pubic region. 

Frontal Plane

This cuts the body into anterior and posterior portions. The plane also splits dorsal and ventral sections.