What is the relationship of the shoulder to the elbow in terms of anatomical terminology?

In anatomical terminology, the terms "proximal" and "distal" are used to describe locations on limbs in relation to the trunk of the body. The shoulder is considered to be proximal to the elbow because it is closer to the point of attachment of the limb to the trunk.

When the body is in the standard anatomical position, which is standing upright with palms facing forward, the shoulder joint is situated at the top of the arm, whereas the elbow joint is lower down the arm, closer to the hand. This positional relationship makes the shoulder proximal to the elbow, as proximal refers to a position that is nearer to the center of the body or the point of attachment. Understanding this relationship is crucial for accurately describing locations and movements in anatomy.