Human Physiology

Lesson 14 : Joints

Types of Movements of Synovial Joints

1. Liner Motion (Gliding): when two opposite surface slide past one another e.g. carpals in wrist, tarsals in ankle shows gliding movement
2. Angular motion: occurs when two bones across a joint makes an angle. It is further sub classified as.
1. Flexion: occurs when angle between two articulating bones is reduced. Example is inward movement of elbow joint, moving the head towards chest.
2. Extension: occurs when angle between two articulating bones is increased. Example is outward movement of elbow joint, moving the head away from chest.
3. Hyperextension: occurs when angle is increased further by applying extra effort. Example is moving the head upwards to gaze the ceilings or sky.
4. Abduction: occurs when movements is made away from the longitudinal axis of body. Example is swinging the upper arm to the side.
5. Adduction: occurs when movement is made towards the longitudinal axis of body. Example is bringing upper arm from side towards the body.
6. Circumduction: occurs when movement is made in a circular fashion. Example is drawing a big circle on the black board involves circumduction of shoulder joint.
7. Rotation: occurs when limb or body part moves in rotational manner with reference to the longitudinal axis of the body. Example rotation of head over the neck from left to right or vice versa.