What does abduction refer to in joint actions?

Abduction refers to the movement of a limb or body part away from the midline of the body. This term is especially relevant in the context of joint actions involving the shoulders, hips, and fingers, for example. When you raise your arms laterally away from your sides, this is an abduction movement. Similarly, when you spread your fingers apart, you are also performing abduction.

The concept of abduction is foundational in understanding how movements occur in relation to the body's central axis. Grasping this terminology is essential for professionals in fields like physical therapy and fitness, as it lays the groundwork for analyzing and implementing effective movement strategies.