Retraction

Definition

In the context of anatomy and physiology, retraction is a movement that pulls a part of the body backward or towards its posterior position on the sagittal plane. It is commonly observed in movements like pulling the shoulders back.

Related terms

Protraction:

This is the opposite movement of retraction, involving pushing a part of the body forward or away from its posterior position.

Extension:

Extension refers to increasing the angle between two bones at a joint, essentially straightening or opening up a joint.

Flexion:

Flexion is the act of decreasing the angle between two bones at a joint, typically bending or folding a joint