Proksimale

Proksimale is an anatomical term that describes a position closer to the point of origin or reference, typically the torso or a limb’s root region. It is used to indicate proximity to the center of the body or to a joint, and it is contrasted with distal, which denotes a position farther from the origin.

The term derives from Latin proximus, meaning nearest, and is adapted into various languages with slight spelling differences. In English, the common form is proximal, while some languages use proksimale or a direct loanword equivalent. In practice, proksimale signals relative location rather than an absolute distance and is most often used in clinical, anatomical, and educational contexts.

In human anatomy, proximal describes structures near the central body axis. Examples include the proximal femur near the hip joint, the proximal humerus near the shoulder, and proximal phalanges near the hand. In dentistry, the proximal surfaces of teeth face toward adjacent teeth and are important in explanations of plaque management and dental restoration. The term also appears in radiology and orthopedic discussions to specify the part of a bone or implant that is nearer to the body’s trunk or a designated joint.

Proksimale is commonly paired with its opposite, distal, to describe locations along a limb or organ. When orientation requires more context, proximal can be supplemented with directional terms such as medial or lateral to convey a more precise position. See also distal, proximal, and anatomical orientation.