In the normal anatomic position, where are the arms placed?

In the normal anatomic position, the arms are positioned outstretched to the sides of the body, with the palms facing forward. This standardized pose allows healthcare professionals and students to communicate clearly about body orientation and movement. When the arms are outstretched with palms facing outward, it provides a consistent reference for describing the location of structures and movements in anatomy.

In this position, the body is also standing upright, facing forward, with arms at shoulder height, which offers a comprehensive way to visualize and describe the human anatomy in relation to one another in a three-dimensional space. Understanding this positioning is crucial in various healthcare settings as it provides a foundational knowledge for assessing the body during examinations and performing physical therapy techniques.