What is abduction in terms of body movement?

Abduction refers to the movement of a body part away from the midline of the body. This term is commonly used in anatomy and physical therapy to describe how limbs and body parts are positioned and move in space. For example, when you raise your arms sideways away from your torso, that action is considered abduction.

Understanding abduction is fundamental in fields like healthcare and fitness, as it is essential for assessing range of motion, creating exercise programs, and providing patient care. It’s also important to differentiate this movement from other types, such as adduction, which involves moving parts toward the midline. This understanding aids in evaluating injuries, performing physical assessments, and developing rehabilitation plans effectively.