What does “proximal” mean in anatomical terms?

In anatomical terms, "proximal" refers to a position that is closer to the point of attachment of a limb or to the trunk of the body. This term is commonly used in contrast to "distal," which indicates a position further away from the point of attachment. For instance, when considering the arm, the shoulder is proximal compared to the elbow, and the elbow is proximal relative to the wrist. Understanding these positional terms is crucial in healthcare and anatomy, as they provide clarity in communication about the location of various structures in the body, especially when discussing injuries, surgical procedures, or assessments.