Anatomical position

Anatomical Position

The Anatomical Position (pronunciation: /ænəˈtɒmɪkəl pəˈzɪʃən/) is a standard position in which the body is standing upright, facing forward, with arms at the sides and palms facing forward. This position is used as a reference in describing the relation of body parts to one another.

Etymology

The term "Anatomical Position" is derived from the Greek words "anatome" which means "dissection", and "position" which is derived from the Latin word "positio", meaning "position".

Description

In the Anatomical Position, the body is in an erect posture with arms hanging on the sides and palms facing forward. The feet are parallel and close to each other, and the toes are pointing forward. The head is level, and the eyes are looking forward towards the observer. This position is used as a reference in anatomy because it is the position in which the body parts are most naturally aligned.

Importance

The Anatomical Position is important because it provides a standard frame of reference for anatomical descriptions and dissections. It allows for consistent and clear communication between medical professionals about where on the body an injury or condition is located.

Related Terms

Anterior: Refers to the front of the body in the anatomical position.
Posterior: Refers to the back of the body in the anatomical position.
Medial: Refers to the middle or center of the body in the anatomical position.
Lateral: Refers to the sides of the body in the anatomical position.
Superior: Refers to the upper part of the body in the anatomical position.
Inferior: Refers to the lower part of the body in the anatomical position.
Proximal: Refers to a point closer to the trunk of the body in the anatomical position.
Distal: Refers to a point farther from the trunk of the body in the anatomical position.