Understanding the Anatomical Position

When describing the anatomy of a person, the language used to indicate direction and location can change dependent upon the position the person is in. For this reason, it is important to have a "reference position" which ensures all directional language is applied appropriately and understood universally. The anatomical position is used as a standard position of reference to ensure that directional terms are understood and mean the same thing universally.

What is the anatomical position?
The anatomical position is a position in which a person stands with their arms at the side, and their palms, eyes and face facing forward. The person's feet should be close together and flat on the floor.

Why is the anatomical position so important?
By using the anatomical position, a reference point is created, thus eliminating confusion. Since directional language, such as the words, "up," "down," "left," "right," "above," and "below" are subjective and can vary depending on many factors. By using one uniform position when examining a person's body, these terms are less likely to be misunderstood or poorly communicated. How the person's body is positioned can greatly change the layout of the person's anatomy and thus change the terms used to describe the person's anatomy.

For example, when the palms are facing upwards or forwards, as they should be in the anatomical position, they are supine. If the palms are facing downwards or backwards, which they should not be in the anatomical position, they are prone. When the palms are supine, the two bones in the forearm, the radius and ulna, are parallel to one another. When the palms are prone, the radius and ulna cross over one another.

References
Saladin. "Major Themes of Anatomy and Physiology." Anatomy & Physiology: The Unity of Form & Function. 4th ed. New York: Mcgraw Hill, 2007. 30 Print.

What is the Anatomical Position?

Anatomical Position