What defines the term 'proximal' in relation to bone structure?

The term 'proximal' in relation to bone structure is defined as referring to the end of a bone that is closest to the trunk or the point of attachment of that bone in the body. This term is commonly used in anatomy to establish a directional relationship of various body parts and structures.

In the context of bones, understanding the term 'proximal' is essential for accurately describing the locations of injuries, surgical approaches, or anatomical studies. For instance, when discussing the arm, the proximal end of the humerus is closer to the shoulder, while the distal end is closer to the elbow.

This clear understanding of directional terms like 'proximal' helps professionals communicate effectively about anatomy in a way that is universally understood in the medical and fitness communities.