What movement is defined as turning the palm up?

The movement defined as turning the palm up is known as supination. This term comes from Latin, where "supinare" means to lay on the back. In the context of the arm, when the forearm is in the supinated position, the palm faces upwards, allowing for certain actions such as holding a bowl or drinking from a cup.

Understanding this terminology is important in health professions as it helps communicate specific movements clearly and accurately. For instance, when assessing a patient's range of motion or instructing them on exercises, knowing the difference between supination and other movements, such as pronation (turning the palm down), is crucial. Flexion and extension, on the other hand, refer to movements that decrease or increase the angle at a joint, respectively, rather than altering the position of the palm.