The fundamental difference is that dorsal refers to the top side of the foot (or hand), while plantar refers specifically to the bottom or sole of the foot.
In more detail:
- Dorsal: Think of the "dorsal fin" on a dolphin; it's on the top. In anatomical terms, dorsal refers to the upper surface of a body part that protrudes relatively horizontally. In the context of the foot or hand, it is the top surface.
- Plantar: This term is exclusive to the foot. The plantar surface is the sole, the part that makes contact with the ground when you stand.
Here's a simple table summarizing the difference:
| Feature | Dorsal | Plantar |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Top of foot/hand | Bottom of foot |
| Body Part | Foot & Hand | Foot only |
| Common Usage | Refers to the back of the hand or top of the foot | Refers to the sole of the foot |
Therefore, while both terms relate to the foot, only the term "plantar" describes the sole, whereas "dorsal" describes the top of the foot (or the back of the hand).
