The hip joint allows for a wide range of movements, primarily through a ball-and-socket configuration. These movements include flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, circumduction, and hip rotation (both internal and external).
Types of Hip Movement
Let's break down each type of hip movement:
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Flexion: This movement brings the thigh forward and upwards, decreasing the angle between the thigh and the trunk. An example is lifting your knee towards your chest.
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Extension: This movement straightens the hip joint, moving the thigh backwards. Examples include pushing off the ground while walking or running, and movements that straighten the leg behind you.
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Abduction: This moves the leg away from the midline of the body. Examples include lifting your leg to the side, or doing a lateral leg raise.
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Adduction: This movement brings the leg towards the midline of the body, or across the midline. Examples include bringing your legs together.
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Circumduction: This is a combination of flexion, abduction, extension, and adduction, allowing the leg to move in a circular motion.
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Hip Rotation: This involves rotating the thigh either internally (inward) or externally (outward). Internal rotation turns the toes inward, while external rotation turns the toes outward.
- Internal (Medial) Rotation: Rotating the leg so the toes point inward.
- External (Lateral) Rotation: Rotating the leg so the toes point outward.
Summary
In summary, the hip's movement is enabled through a combination of flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, circumduction, and internal/external rotation, providing a significant range of motion necessary for various activities.
