Circumduction

Definition

Circumduction is a circular movement of a body part, such as an arm or leg, that combines flexion, extension, abduction, and adduction in a continuous sequence. It allows the distal end of the limb to move in a circle while the proximal end remains stationary.

Related terms

Flexion:

A bending movement that decreases the angle between two parts of the body.

Extension:

An unbending movement that increases the angle between two parts of the body.

Abduction:

The movement of a limb away from the midline or center line of the body