Angular movements

Definition

Angular movements involve the change in angle between two bones connected by a joint. These movements include flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, and circumduction.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Flexion decreases the angle between two bones, typically bending a joint.
2. Extension increases the angle between two bones, usually straightening a joint.
3. Abduction moves a limb away from the body's midline.
4. Adduction brings a limb closer to the body's midline.
5. Circumduction is a circular movement that combines flexion, extension, abduction, and adduction.

Review Questions

Related terms

Flexion:

Bending movement that decreases the angle of a joint.

Extension:

Straightening movement that increases the angle of a joint.

Rotation:

Movement where a bone pivots around its own longitudinal axis.