Anatomical Directional Terms

In anatomical position, the palms of the hands face

• posteriorly

• superiorly

• to the anterior

• to the posterior

Describes the front or direction toward the front of the body

• Anterior

• superior

• posterior

• Inferior

Describes a position closer to the surface of the body.

• Distal

• Medial

• Lateral

• Superficial

It describes a position in a limb that is nearer to the point of attachment or the trunk of the body.

• Inferior

• Proximal

• Superior

• Anterior

In dogs, the paw is _______ to the elbow.

• Proximal

• Distal

• Deep

• Superficial

Another word for back is

• ventral
• anterior
• dorsal
• sagital

Another word for front is

• ventral
• posterior
• dorsal
• sagital

My nose is ______________ to my shoulders

• inferior

• superior

My toes are _________________ to my femur

• proximal

• distal

My elbow is ______________ to my fingers

• proximal
• distal