Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Retraction is the movement of a body part in the posterior direction, toward the back of the body. It commonly occurs in joints such as the shoulder blades and jaw.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
Retraction moves a body part backward along a horizontal plane.
The scapulae (shoulder blades) undergo retraction when they move closer to the spine.
Retraction can be observed in movements such as pulling the jaw backward.
Muscles involved in retraction include the rhomboids and middle trapezius for the scapula.
Opposite to protraction, which involves moving a body part forward.