Which body plane divides the body vertically into a front and back portion?

The body plane that divides the body vertically into a front and back portion is known as the frontal plane. This plane runs vertically from side to side and separates the body into anterior (front) and posterior (back) sections. Understanding this division is crucial in the context of human anatomy, as it helps in describing the location of structures in relation to one another and allows for precise communication in both medical and therapeutic fields.

In contrast, the transverse plane divides the body horizontally into upper and lower portions. The sagittal plane divides the body into left and right portions, and while "coronal" is often used interchangeably with "frontal," it's essential to be aware that they refer to the same concept in distinguishing front from back. Knowing how these planes function enhances the comprehension of body orientation and movement as well as applications in massage therapy.