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Anatomy

The field of science concerned with the study of the physical structures of organisms.

Physiology

Concerns the function of the body and how body parts work to carry out life-sustaining activities.

Anatomical Position

A reference position where the body is erect, feet slightly apart, palms facing forward, and thumbs pointing away from the body.

Superior

Refers to a position higher than another, often toward the head in the human body.

Inferior

Refers to a position lower than another, or towards the feet in the human body.

Medial

Position towards the midline of the body.

Lateral

Position away from the midline of the body.

Proximal

Position in a limb that is nearest to the trunk.

Distal

Position in a limb that is furthest from the trunk.

Superficial

At, near, or relatively close to the body surface.

Deep

Toward the interior of the body; farther from the surface.

Bilateral

Affecting both sides of the body.

Unilateral

Affecting only one side of an organ, structure, or body.

Ipsilateral

Affecting different structures but on the same side of the body.

Contralateral

Affecting different structures on opposite sides of the body.

Flexion

Closing the joint; joint angle becomes smaller.

Extension

Opening the joint; joint angle becomes larger.

Adduction

Moving a body part toward the midline of the body.

Abduction

Moving a body part away from the midline of the body.

Supination

Turning the palm upward, also known as the 'soup bowl' position.

Pronation

Turning the palm downward; turning toward the midline.

Cranial Cavity

The cavity within the skull that contains the brain.

Spinal Cavity

The cavity that surrounds the spinal cord.

Thoracic Cavity

The cavity that contains the heart and lungs.

Abdominal Cavity

The cavity that contains digestive organs.

Pelvic Cavity

The cavity that contains reproductive organs and the urinary bladder.

Pericardial Cavity

A cavity that surrounds the heart.

Pleural Cavities

Cavities that surround each lung.

Peritoneal Cavity

Cavity that contains many digestive organs and glands.

Serous Membrane

A continuous double membrane that lines body cavities, covers, and suspends organs.