Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Medial rotation is the inward turning of a bone around its long axis towards the center of the body. It is a type of movement that occurs at synovial joints, particularly ball-and-socket and hinge joints.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
Medial rotation often occurs at the shoulder and hip joints.
It is one of several rotational movements in the body, with lateral rotation being its opposite.
Muscles responsible for medial rotation include subscapularis in the shoulder and gluteus medius in the hip.
Medial rotation is crucial for various daily activities such as walking and lifting objects.
Proper functioning of medial rotator muscles can prevent injuries and improve joint stability.
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Related terms
lateral_rotation: Lateral rotation is the outward turning of a bone around its long axis away from the center of the body.
abduction: Abduction is the movement of a limb away from the midline or center plane of the body.
adduction: Adduction is the movement of a limb towards the midline or center plane of the body.