When describing a limb position, what does the term proximal refer to?

The term proximal refers to a position on a limb that is closer to the trunk of the body. This anatomical term is used to describe locations on the limbs relative to the center of the body. For example, the shoulder is proximal to the elbow because it is closer to the trunk, whereas the wrist is distal to the elbow because it is farther from the trunk. Understanding the concept of proximal is essential in sports medicine and anatomy, as it helps healthcare professionals accurately communicate about the location of injuries or conditions in relation to the central body structure.