Which term describes the action of bending a joint?

The term that describes the action of bending a joint is flexion. In anatomical terms, flexion refers to the movement that decreases the angle between two body parts, typically at the joints. For example, when you bend your elbow, you are flexing it, reducing the angle between your forearm and upper arm. This action is fundamental in various activities, including walking, running, and any movement where limbs are moved closer to the body.

While other terms like extension refer to straightening a joint (increasing the angle), elevation pertains to raising a body part, and abduction involves moving a body part away from the midline of the body, these actions differ distinctly from flexion. Understanding these terms is crucial for anyone involved in medical fields, as they provide the foundational language for describing bodily movements and functions.