Anatomy + Physiology - Chapter 6 - Movement Types

Flexion

• decreases the angle of a joint

• Brings 2 bones closer together

• Common in hinges and ball and socket

Extension

• opposite of flexion

• increase an angle/distance between 2 bones or parts

Hyperextension

extension greater than 180 degrees

Rotation

• movement of a bone around a longitudinal axis

Abduction

• movement of a limb away from the midline

• fan out fingers/toes

Adduction

• movement of a limb toward midline

Circumduction

• combo of flexion, extension, abduction, and adduction

• proximal stationary; distal end moves in circle

Dorsiflexion

lifting foot so superior surface approaches shin

Plantar Flexion

• pointing toes away from shin

Inversion

• turn side of foot medially

Eversion

• turn side of foot laterally

Supination

• turning palm upward “soup bowl” position; turning away from midline

Pronation

• opposite of supination

Opposition

• movement of thumb to approach or touch fingertips