Which of the following statements correctly uses directional terms to describe the relationship between the knee and the ankle?

• A. The knee is inferior to the ankle.
• B. The knee is distal to the ankle.
• C. The knee is proximal to the ankle.
• D. The knee is lateral to the ankle.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the directional terms: 'proximal' refers to a position closer to the point of attachment or origin, while 'distal' refers to a position farther from the point of attachment or origin. 'Inferior' means below, and 'lateral' means away from the midline of the body.
2. Identify the anatomical relationship: The knee and ankle are both part of the lower limb, and the point of attachment for the limb is the hip joint.
3. Compare the positions: The knee is closer to the hip joint (the point of attachment) than the ankle, making the knee 'proximal' to the ankle.
4. Eliminate incorrect options: The knee is not 'inferior' to the ankle because it is above the ankle. The knee is not 'distal' to the ankle because it is closer to the hip. The knee is not 'lateral' to the ankle because both are aligned along the same axis of the limb.
5. Conclude that the correct statement is: 'The knee is proximal to the ankle,' as it accurately describes the anatomical relationship using directional terms.