Understanding Joint Movements: Flexion, Extension, Abduction, Adduction, Rotation, and Circumduction

Flexion is a movement of a joint that results in a decrease in the angle between the bones. It is also known as bending or flexing. When a muscle contracts to cause a joint to bend, it is an example of flexion.

Question 2: What is extension?
Ans. Extension is a movement of a joint that results in an increase in the angle between the bones. It is the opposite of flexion. When a muscle contracts to straighten a bent joint, it is an example of extension.

Question 3: What is abduction ?
Ans. Abduction is a movement of a limb away from the midline of the body. For example, when you raise your arm out to the side, your shoulder muscles are performing abduction.

Question 4: What is adduction?
Ans. Adduction is a movement of a limb towards the midline of the body. For example, when you bring your arm in towards your body, your shoulder muscles are performing adduction.

Question 5: What is rotation ?
Ans. Rotation is a movement of a body part around its long axis. For example, when you turn your head from side to side, your neck is rotating.

Question 6: What is circumduction?
Ans. Circumduction is a movement of a body part around a circular path. It involves both flexion and extension of the joints in a circular motion. For example, when you swing your arm in a circular motion, your shoulder muscles are performing circumduction.