Anatomical Terminology and Planes

A collection of flashcards covering anatomical planes, directional terms, and movement terminology.

Sagittal Plane

A plane that runs parallel to the median plane.

Transverse Plane

A plane that runs perpendicular to the median plane.

Frontal Plane (humans)

Dorsal plane in animals.

Dorsal Direction

Towards the spine.

Palmar Surface

The front surface of the leg below the carpus.

Plantar Surface

The back surface of the hind leg below the hock.

Flexion

Movement that decreases the angle between two bones.

Extension

Movement that increases the angle between two bones; extension over 180° is hyperextension.

Abduct

Movement away from the median plane.

Adduct

Movement toward the median plane.

Circumduction

A circular movement that combines flexion, extension, abduction, and adduction.

Directional Terms

Terms that describe the position of one body part in relation to another.