Anatomical Directions and Positions

Set of terminology surrounding anatomical directions, planes, and positions.

Anatomical position

Position where the body is straight up, arms at the side, and the head, toes, and palms are forward.

Superior

Above a certain part of the body along the long axis.

Inferior

Below a certain part of the body along the long axis.

Anterior

The most forward part of the body.

Posterior

Parts of the body that are toward the backside.

Medial

Towards the midline of the body.

Lateral

Away from the midline of the body.

Cephalad

Toward the head (used interchangeably with superior in humans).

Caudad (caudal)

Toward the tail (used interchangeably with inferior in humans).

Dorsal

Towards the backside of an animal (used interchangeably with posterior in humans).

Ventral

Towards the front side of an animal (used interchangeably with anterior in humans).

Proximal

Closer to the trunk or attached end.

Distal

Farther away from the trunk or attached end.

Superficial

Towards the exterior (typically skin) of the body surface.

Deep

Towards the interior (typically organs) of the body surface.

Sagittal (median) plane

A lengthwise cross section of the body, into left and right sides.

Frontal (coronal) plane

A longitudinal cross section of the body into anterior and posterior sides.

Transverse (horizontal) plane

A plane that runs horizontally, dividing the superior and inferior parts.

Supine position

Where the patient is lying face up.

Prone position

Where the patient is lying face down.

Left/right lateral recumbent position

Where the patient is lying on either side.