What is the pattern of growth where parts of the body closest to the trunk develop before those further away?

The pattern of growth where parts of the body closest to the trunk develop before those further away is known as proximodistal development. This concept is grounded in the understanding of human physical development, which indicates that during the early stages of growth, the central parts of the body—such as the torso—develop and gain strength before the extremities like arms and legs.

As children grow, they first gain control over their torso and then progressively develop fine motor skills and control of their limbs. This growth pattern is crucial for the establishment of a sturdy core, allowing for better balance and coordination as the limbs develop.

Cephalocaudal development, on the other hand, refers to development starting from the head and moving downward to the feet, emphasizing the order in which different parts of the body gain control. Linear development is not a term specifically recognized in growth patterns, and segmental development does not accurately describe this coordinated growth from the center outward. Therefore, proximodistal development is the term that accurately identifies this specific growth pattern.