Muscular Movement Terminology

Descriptions of Muscle Movements1.) During Flexion of Elbow1. Prime mover (agonist)ex. When biceps brachii contracts

2. Antagonists-oppose prime movers-ex. When triceps brachii extends

3. Synergists-aid agonists, promote same movement- ex. Brachialis

4. Fixators-fix or minimize movements, muscles that hold scapula in place ex. rhomboideus

Body Movements

Muscular Movement Terminology

1. Flexion and Extension: Flexion is the movement that causes the angle of the joint to decrease. Extension causes the angle to increase.

2. Abduction and Adduction: Abduction is movement away from the midline of the body. Adduction is movement toward the midline of the body.

3. Elevation and depression: Elevation is movement towards the superior portion of the body. Depression is movement in the inferior direction.

4. Internal and External Rotation: Internal rotation is movement toward the median line, external rotation is movement away from the median line.