Anatomical Movements and Positions

Front

Flexion

Back

When a joint bends to become more acute (becoming less than 90 degrees)

Front

Extension

Back

When a joint extends to become more obtuse (becoming greater than 90 degrees)

Front

Abduction

Back

Move away from the midline laterally

Front

Adduction

Back

Move toward the midline

Front

Pronation

Back

Turning the hand palm down

Front

Supination

Back

Turning the hand palm up

Front

Retraction

Back

Chin, moving back toward the midline; Scapula, Adducting toward the midline

Front

Protraction

Back

Chin, moving forward away from the midline; Scapula, Abducting away from the midline

Front

Elevation

Back

Scapula, moving superiorly. Shrugging shoulders

Front

Depression

Back

Scapula, Moving inferiorly