Types of body movements: want to learn more about it?
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Types of body movements
Learning objectives
After completing this study unit you will learn how to:
1. Name the terms used to describe the main types of movements found in the human body.
2. Describe the movements performed by the major joints of the human body.
Watch a video
Our musculoskeletal system functions to propel our bodies within space and allows us to interact with the world around us. These movements occur at our synovial joints, as a result of muscles acting on our skeleton. Specific terms are given to each movement to help clearly communicate the way in which a joint is moving. Watch the following video to learn about the various types of movements occurring in the human body.
Take a quiz
Now that you have watched our videos on body movement check your knowledge by taking the following quiz.
Browse atlas
Summary
Terminology of movements |
Flexion / extension Lateral (external) rotation / internal (medial) rotation Abduction / adduction Pronation / supination Elevation / depression Protraction / retraction Plantarflexion / dorsiflexion Eversion / inversion Opposition / reposition Lateral flexion Rotation Circumduction |
Movement at the major joints |
Shoulder; flexion extension, abduction, adduction, internal rotation, external rotation, circumduction Elbow; flexion extension Proximal radioulnar joint; pronation, supination Wrist; flexion, extension, adduction and abduction Hip; flexion extension, abduction, adduction, internal rotation, external rotation, circumduction Knee; Flexion, extension (small degree of internal-external rotation when knee is flexed) Ankle; dorsiflexion, plantarflexion Subtalar joint; inversion, eversion Spine; flexion, extension, rotation and lateral flexion, rotation (greatest at the atlantoaxial joint) Mandible; elevation, depression, protraction, retraction Scapula: protraction, retraction, elevation, depression, upward rotation, and downward rotation |