Body Movement Terminology

Abduct/Abduction

Movement of a part away from the central axis of the body or part

Adduct/Adduction

Movement of a part toward the central axis of the body or body part

Extension

Straightening of a joint; when both elements of the joint are in anatomic position

Flexion

Act of bending a joint; opposite of extension

Hyperextension

Forced or excessive extension of a limb or joints

Hyperflexion

Forced overflexion of a limb or joints

Evert/eversion

Outward turning of the foot at the ankle

Invert/inversion

Inward turning of the foot at the ankle

Pronate/pronation

Rotation of forearm so that the palm faces down

Supinate/Supination

Rotation of the forearm so that the palm is up in anatomical position
(think of cupping a bowl of soup)

Rotate/Rotation

Turning or rotating of the body or a body part around its axis

Circumduction

Circular movement of a limb

Tilt

Tipping or slanting a body part slightly; tilt is in relation to the long axis of the body

Deviation

Turning away from the regular standard or course

Dorsiflexion

Flexion or bending of the foot toward the leg

Plantar Flexion

Flexion or bending of the foot downward toward the sole