In anatomy, what does the term 'proximal' refer to?

The term 'proximal' is used in anatomy to define a position that is closer to the trunk of the body. This directional term helps in locating and describing the relative positions of structures within the body. For example, when referring to the arms and legs, the shoulder is proximal to the elbow, as it is nearer to the central part of the body (the trunk). Understanding this term is essential for effective communication, particularly in medical and anatomical contexts, enabling healthcare providers to accurately describe locations of injuries, conditions, or surgical procedures in relation to the body’s structure.