Distal refers to a body part that is farther from the torso, relative to another body part. For example, the bottom of the femur (thigh bone), which is one of three bony surfaces that form the knee joint, is called the distal femur. Related Definitions Lateral Medial Proximal Editor’s Top Picks Broken Wrist (Distal Radius Fracture) Causes and Risk Factors for Distal Radius Fracture Symptoms of a Distal Radius Fracture Treatment for a Distal Radius Fracture Diagnosing a Distal Radius Fracture Nonsurgical Options for Treating a Distal Radius Fracture