Anatomical Terminology (1.1)

Transverse

A horizontal field dividing the body into upper and lower portions (superior and anterior).

Coronal

A vertical body plane that divides the body into front and back sections (anterior and posterior).

Sagittal

Divides the body into left and right sides, though not in the middle.

Distal

Refers to a structure of the upper or lower limb that is farther away from the root of the limb than another.

Medial

Refers to one structure being closer to the median sagittal plane than another.

Lateral

Refers to one structure being farther from the median sagittal plane that another.

Pronation

Rotary movement of the forearm so that the palm of the hand faces posteriorly (in extension) or inferiorly (in flexion).

Plantar

The bottom, or ventral surface (sole), of the foot or toes.

Palmar

The ventral surface (palm) of the hand or fingers.

Inversion

Turning the sole of the foot inwardly to face towards the midline.

Medial Sagittal

Divides the body or organ vertically into equal right and left parts.

Abduction

Movement of an appendage away from the median sagittal plane.

Circumduction

Movement of an appendage in the circular or cone-shaped path. (involves abduction, adduction, flexion, and extension)

Adduction

Movement of an appendage toward the median sagittal plane.

Plantarflexion

Movement of the foot at the ankle so that the ball of the foot moves inferiorly, as when you stand on your toes.

Dorsiflexion

Movement of the foot at the ankle so that the ball of the foot moves superiorly, as when you stand on your heels.

Opposition

Movement of the thumb to touch a fingertip. This involves abduction, flexion and medial rotation of the thumb.

Flexion

Movement that decreases the angle between two parts. Usually a movement to a more anterior location from anatomical positions.

Extension

Movement that increases the angle between two parts. Usually a movement to a more posterior location from anatomical position.

Proximal

Refers to a structure of the upper limb or lower limb that is closer to the root (attachment) of the limb than the other.

Supination

Rotary movement of the forearm so that the palm faces anteriorly (in extension) or superiorly (in flexion).

Eversion

Turning the sole of the foot outward to face away from the midline.