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What is an Example of Internal Rotation?

Published in Joint Rotation 2 mins read

An example of internal rotation involves rotating a limb inward towards the center of the body, such as moving your forearm down by rotating at the shoulder or turning your foot inward until your small toe points forward.

Understanding Internal Rotation

Internal rotation, also known as medial rotation, is an anatomical movement that turns a limb or body part on its axis inward, bringing it closer to the midline of the body. This movement is crucial for various daily activities and athletic maneuvers.

Here are specific examples demonstrating internal rotation in different joints:

  • Shoulder Internal Rotation:

    • To observe this movement, bend your right elbow and lift your arm at your side.
    • The internal rotation occurs when you then slowly rotate at the shoulder to move your forearm down. This action causes the upper arm bone (humerus) to rotate inwards within the shoulder joint.
  • Hip Internal Rotation:

    • For an example of hip internal rotation, straighten your right leg with the side of the foot facing forward.
    • The internal rotation of the hip happens as you slowly rotate the foot inward until the small toe points forward. This movement signifies the thigh bone (femur) rotating inwards within the hip joint.

These examples clearly illustrate how internal rotation facilitates inward turning movements across major joints, playing a key role in overall body mechanics.