1. Anatomical Directions
Joint Movements

2. Flexion Definition: Decreasing the angle between 2 bones
Example: An arm (bicep) curl

3. Extension Definition: Increasing the angle between 2 bones
Example: Straightening the arm (triceps extension)

4. Hyperflexion Definition: Flexion beyond the normal range of motion
Example: Whiplash

5. Hyperextension Definition: Extension beyond the normal range of motion
Example: A backbend

6. Abduction Definition: Movement of a body part away from the midline
Example: Lifting your arm to put on deodorant

7. Adduction
Definition: Movement of a body part toward the midline (“adding”)
Example: Second half of a jumping jack

8. Horizontal Abduction/Extension
Definition: Movement of a body part away from the midline in a horizontal fashion
Example: Opening a sliding glass door with a straight arm

9. Horizontal Adduction/Flexion
Definition: Movement of a body part toward the midline in a horizontal fashion
Example: Scratching the back of your opposite shoulder

10. Internal (Medial) Rotation
Definition: Inward rotation
Example: Closing curtains

11. External (Lateral) Rotation
Definition: Outward rotation
Example: Opening your towel; cocking phase of baseball pitch

12. Pronation
Definition: Turning the palm downward; turning in toward the midline
Example: Turning a doorknob toward the midline

13. Supination
Definition: Turning the palm upward (“soup bowl” position; Turning away from the midline
Example: Turning into the anatomical position; turning a doorknob away from the midline

14. Ulnar Deviation
Definition: Motion of the hand toward the ulnar (pinky) side of the forearm
Example: Hammering a nail

15. Radial Deviation
Definition: Motion of the hand toward the radial (thumb) side of the forearm
Example: Lifting a hammer to strike a nail

16. Elevation
Definition: To raise
Example: Shrugging your shoulders

17. Depression Definition: To lower
Example: Lowering the shoulder after shrugging it

18. Inversion Definition: Turning the toes of the foot inward
Example: Pointing the toes toward each other

19. Eversion Definition: Turning the toes of the foot outward
Example: Pointing your toes opposite of each other

20. Circumduction
Definition: Combination of flexion, extension, abduction, and adduction; rotation of a body part
Example: Arm circles; wrist circles

21. Dorsiflexion
Definition: Ankle movement; bringing the foot toward the shin
Example: Toe lifts

22. Plantar Flexion Definition: Ankle movement; pointing the toes
Example: Calf raises; toes raises (donkey calf raises)