Movement Terminology

Question 1

Flexion

Answer 1

Reduction in the angle

Question 2

Extension

Answer 2

Increase/Extension in the angle

Question 3

Adduction

Answer 3

Bringing something closer to the midline

Question 4

Abduction

Answer 4

Taking away from the midline

Question 5

Internal Rotation

Answer 5

Front surface of the limb turns to face the midline of the body
(Medial Rotation)

Question 6

External Rotation

Answer 6

Front surface of the limb turns away from the midline of the body
(Lateral Rotation)

Question 7

Circumduction

Answer 7

Taking the distal portion of the limb in a circular motion
(Nearly always applies to a limb)

Question 8

Rotation

Answer 8

Pivot on an axis

Question 9

Elevation

Answer 9

Move a body part superiorly or up towards the head

Question 10

Depression

Answer 10

Move a body part inferiorly or move a body part away from the head

Question 11

Supination

Answer 11

When palms are faced up and the radius and ulnar are uncrossed
(Specific to forearm)

Question 12

Pronation

Answer 12

When palms are faced down and the radius and ulnar crossed
(Specific to the forearm)

Question 13

Plantar Flexion

Answer 13

Take the toes away from the shin

Question 14

DorsiFlexion

Answer 14

Bring toes back up towards shin

Question 15

Horizontal Flexion

Answer 15

Moving a hand in line with the horizon - Bring a hand across in front of the body
(Specific to shoulder)

Question 16

Horizontal Extension

Answer 16

Moving a hand in line with the horizon - Bring a hand across away from the body
(Specific to shoulder)