Kinesiology: Directional Terms

Structural kinesiology

The study of muscles, bones, and joints as they are involved in the science of movement.

Superior

Above or higher in relation to another structure.

Inferior

Below or lower in relation to another structure.

Anterior

Front or toward the front of the body.

Posterior

Back or toward the back of the body.

Medial

Nearer to the middle or midsagittal plane.

Lateral

Farther from the middle or midsagittal plane.

Proximal

Nearest to the trunk or point of origin.

Distal

Away from the center, midline, or point of origin.

Superficial

Near the surface.

Deep

Beneath or below the surface.

Dorsal

Relating to the back or posterior part; also the top of the foot.

Ventral

Relating to the belly/front/anterior part.

Palmar

Relating to the palm of the hand.

Plantar

Relating to the sole of the foot.

Radial

Toward the radius side of the forearm.

Ulnar

Toward the ulna side of the forearm.

Tibial

Toward the tibia side of the lower leg.

Fibular

Toward the fibula side of the lower leg.