In anatomical terminology for the limbs, what does the directional term proximal mean?

• A. Toward the midline of the body
• B. Toward the back (posterior) surface of the body
• C. Closer to the point of attachment of a limb to the trunk
• D. Farther from the point of attachment of a limb to the trunk

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that anatomical directional terms describe locations or positions of structures relative to other parts of the body.
2. Recognize that the term 'proximal' is specifically used to describe positions on limbs (arms and legs).
3. Recall that 'proximal' means closer to the point where the limb attaches to the trunk of the body, such as the shoulder for the arm or the hip for the leg.
4. Differentiate 'proximal' from 'distal,' which means farther from the point of attachment to the trunk.
5. Therefore, 'proximal' refers to a position on a limb that is nearer to the trunk, not toward the midline or the back surface of the body.