A structure closer to the torso attachment is described as

• A. Distal to the torso
• B. Proximal to the torso
• C. Superior to
• D. Posterior to

Answer: (B)

Proximal describes a structure that is closer to the point where a limb attaches to the body trunk. Since the torso is the attachment point for the limbs, something nearer that attachment is described as proximal. For example, the upper arm is proximal to the forearm, and the thigh is proximal to the knee. Distal means farther from the trunk, while superior and posterior refer to vertical or back-facing relationships, not closeness to the torso. So a structure closer to the torso attachment is described as proximal to the torso.