Rotational movement

Definition

Rotational movement is the motion of a body part around its own axis. It is a type of angular movement commonly facilitated by joints.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The shoulder and hip joints are primary examples where rotational movement occurs.
2. Rotational movement can be internal (medial) or external (lateral) depending on the direction relative to the body's midline.
3. The atlantoaxial joint between the first two cervical vertebrae allows for rotation of the head.
4. Muscles like the rotator cuff in the shoulder are essential for enabling and controlling rotational movements.
5. Rotational movements are crucial for many daily activities, from turning your head to twisting your torso.

Review Questions

• What type of joint primarily facilitates rotational movement?
• Differentiate between internal and external rotational movement with examples.
• Which muscles are involved in facilitating rotational movement in the shoulder?

Related terms

Flexion: Decreasing the angle between two bones at a joint.

Extension: Increasing the angle between two bones at a joint.

Circumduction: A conical movement of a body part, such as moving the arm or leg in a circular manner.