Lateral (Anatomy): Definition, Examples, and Clinical Use

Lateral means farther from the midline (median plane) of the body. It is the opposite of medial (closer to midline).

Examples

• The ears are lateral to the nose.
• The little toe is on the lateral side of the foot; the big toe is medial.
• The radial artery is lateral to the ulnar artery in the anatomical position.
• A lateral epicondyle fracture is on the outer elbow.
• Lateral decubitus position: Lying on the side.

Clinical Relevance

• Precise communication of injury/surgery site (e.g., "lateral meniscus tear").
• Imaging views: Lateral X-ray (beam perpendicular to frontal plane).
• Physical exam: Comparing bilateral symmetry.

Always used relative to standard anatomical position (standing, palms forward).