Caudal

Caudal (cuadad): An anatomical direction that refers to "toward the tail," relative to the human body, this term refers to toward the tailbone (sacrum and coccyx). For example, a therapist may use a caudally directed force applied to a trigger point in the upper trapezius muscle or the quadratus lumborum may be described as caudal to the 12th rib.

• Note that this term is not used as often as inferior or distal , but may add clarity when describing a technique or the location of a structure when the body position or limb position is unknown or changing.

The opposite of Caudal:

• Cranial

For more information on the anatomical directions, check out

• Lesson 1: Anatomical Position and Anatomical Directions

Examples of Caudal used in practice:

• Caudal Vertebrae: These are the vertebrae located at the lower end of the vertebral column, commonly known as the coccyx or tailbone in humans.
• Caudal Glide: A manual therapy technique where a therapist applies a downward force (toward the tailbone) to a joint. For example, a caudal glide of the hip.
• Caudal Block: An anesthetic technique where local anesthesia is injected into the lower epidural space to numb the lower body.