Directional Terminology

toward front of body

toward back of body

toward tail

toward head

closest point of origin

toward internal organ; away from outer wall. (organ covered with visceral layer of the membrane)

toward wall; away from internal structures. (abdominal cavity lined with parietal peritoneal membranes)

refers to an inner region; or medulla. (medullary portion of organ, contains nerve tissue)

drawing toward middle

drawing away from middle

sent toward center; afferent nerves carry impulses to central nervous system.

send away from center; efferent nerves carry info away from CNS to muscles/ glands/

turning inward

limb moves into a straight position

movement which limb is bent (making a fist)

turning inward

pointing toes downward

lying on face

turning on an axis. (head turn from side to side)

lying face up