Whether you’re a nurse, doctor, or medical student, it’s essential to know the difference between proximal and distal. These two terms are used to describe different anatomical structures and locations in the body. Keep reading to learn more about proximal vs. distal and how to use these terms correctly.
Table of Contents
What is Proximal?
Proximal refers to something near or close to an origin point. In anatomy, the proximal end of a bone is closest to the center of the body. In a muscle, it is the part closest to the trunk of the body. Proximal also applies to other items, such as regions and directions.
Example:
Let’s take a simple example further to explain the concept of proximal in medical terms. The proximal end of the tibia is located near or close to the knee joint.
What is Distal?
Distal refers to something that is away from the origin point. In anatomy, the distal end of a bone is furthest away from the center of the body. In a muscle, it is the part furthest away from the trunk of the body. Distal also applies to other items, such as regions and directions.
Example: The distal end of the tibia, however, is located at the ankle joint.
How Proximal and Distal are Related?
Proximal and distal are related in that they both refer to the relative location of an item when compared to an origin point. The proximal is closer to the origin point, while the distal is further away. Proximal and distal are two of the four cardinal directions (the other two being medial and lateral). In anatomy, proximal and distal describe the location of an organ or body part relative to a reference point.
Example, the hand is proximal to the elbow, while the wrist is distal. Proximal and distal can also describe movement; for instance, flexion is a proximal movement, while the extension is a distal movement.
Final Thoughts
Learning anatomical terminology can be challenging for anyone – whether you’re just starting your healthcare career or a seasoned professional. However, it’s essential to grasp standard terms like proximal and distal, so you can effectively communicate with colleagues and provide proper patient care. Now that you know more about proximal vs. distal put your knowledge into practice and see how quickly you master using these terms correctly!
Mrs. Marie Brown has been a registered nurse for over 25 years. She began her nursing career at a Level I Trauma Center in downtown Chicago, Illinois. There she worked in the Emergency Department and on the Surgical Intensive Care Unit. After several years, she moved to the Midwest and continued her nursing career in a critical care setting. For the last 10 years of her nursing career, Mrs. Brown worked as a flight nurse with an air ambulance service. During this time, she cared for patients throughout the United States.