What does medial refer to in relation to the body?

The term "medial" in anatomical terminology is used to describe a position that is closer to the midline of the body. The midline is an imaginary line that divides the body into equal right and left halves. Therefore, when something is referred to as medial, it indicates that it lies nearer to this midline in contrast to other anatomical structures that are positioned away from it.

For instance, the nose is considered medial to the ears because it is located closer to the midline of the face. This terminology is essential in physical therapy and healthcare settings to accurately describe the locations of various body parts, allowing for effective communication and understanding among medical professionals.