Posterior

Posterior: An anatomical direction that refers to structures on the back of the body. For example, the gluteus maximus is on the posterior side of the pelvis and hip.

• Opposite: Anterior
• Course (with Video Lecture): Lesson 1: Anatomical Position and Anatomical Directions

Semantics and Contemporary Use: "Posterior" is synonymous with “dorsal” when describing human anatomy in the upright anatomical position. However, "posterior" is preferred in clinical and academic contexts for clarity, especially when referring to body parts below the head and torso, where "dorsal " may confuse (e.g., dorsal foot vs. posterior leg).

Opposite: The opposite of posterior is anterior . These two terms are often paired to describe the relative position of structures. For example, the gluteus maximus is posterior to the more anterior piriformis ; however, the piriformis is also posterior to the hip joint .

Applied Example: In a standing posture (anatomical position), the shoulder blades (scapulae) are located on the posterior side of the thorax. During a seated row exercise, the movement emphasizes posterior musculature, including the rhomboids , trapezius , and posterior deltoid .

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

What is the difference between dorsal and posterior?

• In human anatomy, posterior typically refers to the back side in the anatomical position, whereas dorsal may be used for the back of the hand or top of the foot. In quadruped animals, dorsal refers to the upper side (back), making the terms non-interchangeable in some contexts.

Is posterior the same as back?

• Yes, "posterior" generally means the same as "back" when referring to human anatomy, but “posterior” is the more precise and formal anatomical term. Posterior also specifically refers to "back" when the body is in anatomical position. So, if an individual lies down, 'posterior' still refers to the back of the body.

What muscles are considered posterior?

• Muscles located on the back side of the body, such as the trapezius , latissimus dorsi , gluteus maximus , and hamstrings , are considered posterior muscles.

How is 'posterior' used in movement science?

• It helps describe directional movement and location—e.g., “posterior pelvic tilt ,” or “posterior chain activation ” in exercise programming.

Can something be both posterior and lateral?

• Yes. Anatomical terms can be combined to describe complex positions. For example, the posterior cruciate ligament inserts into the posterior-medial aspect of the tibial plateau.

"Posterior" Referenced in the Name of Muscles

• Posterior Deltoid : The portion of the deltoid on the back of the shoulder.
• Tibialis Posterior : Of the two tibialis muscles, this muscle is on the back side of the tibia.
• Posterior Scalene: Of the three scalene muscles, this muscle is behind the other two.
• Posterior Serratus Superior and Inferior: Unlike the serratus anterior that originates on the front of the ribcage, these muscles original on the back of the ribcage.
• Posterior Auricular: A small muscle located behind the ear, involved in movements of the auricle.

Anatomical Directions

• Superior – (above) toward the top
• Inferior – (below) toward the bottom
• Medial - closer to the midline
• Lateral - further from the midline
• Anterior – toward the front
• Posterior – toward the back
• Proximal – closer to the trunk or center of the body
• Distal – further from the trunk or center of the body
• Supine - Face or palm up
• Prone - Face or palm down

Terms referring to sides:

• Bilateral - both sides
• Unilateral - one side
• Contralateral - opposite side
• Ipsilateral - same side

Additional Terms:

• Dorsal – on the back (upper surface)
• Plantar – relating to the sole of the foot
• Ventral – belly side (front of the trunk)
• Volar (Palmar) - relating to the palm of the hand
• Cranial (Cephalad) – Toward the head
• Caudal – Toward the tail (or toward the feet)