Anatomical Movements and Planes

Front

Flexion

Back

The bending movement that decreases the angle between two parts.

Front

Extension

Back

The straightening movement that increases the angle between two parts.

Front

Adduction

Back

The movement of a limb toward the midline of the body.

Front

Abduction

Back

The movement of a limb away from the midline of the body.

Front

Rotation

Back

The circular movement around an axis.

Front

Circumduction

Back

The circular movement of a limb that involves a combination of flexion, extension, adduction, and abduction.

Front

Supination

Back

The rotation of the forearm and hand so that the palm faces upward.

Front

Pronation

Back

The rotation of the forearm and hand so that the palm faces downward.

Front

Midline

Back

An imaginary line that divides the body into equal right and left halves.

Front

Median Plane

Back

The vertical plane that divides the body into right and left parts.