Joint movement

Understanding Joint Movement

• Joint movement refers to the range of movement at a joint, where two or more bones meet.
• It depends on the type of joint and the strength and flexibility of the muscles and ligaments surrounding it.
• Muscles contract and relax to facilitate joint movement, controlled by the nervous system.

Types of Joint Movement

• There are several basic types of joint movement, including flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, rotation, and circumduction.

Flexion and Extension

• Flexion is a movement that decreases the angle between two body parts, such as bending at the elbow or knee.
• Extension is a movement that increases this angle, straightening the joint.

Abduction and Adduction

• Abduction involves moving a limb away from the midline of the body, like spreading the arms or legs apart.
• Adduction is the reverse movement, bringing limbs closer to the body’s midline.

Rotation and Circumduction

• Rotation refers to the circular movement around the joint, such as shaking the head or twisting the waist.
• Circumduction is a combination of flexion, extension, abduction, and adduction, where the limb moves in a circular motion (like making circles with the arm).

Joint Movement in Sport Performance

• In sport, each athlete’s specific movements are unique to their discipline and may call for a diverse use of joint mobilisation.
• An effective training programme should increase the joint range of movement, boosting performance and reducing injury risk. Examples are Pilates, yoga, and strength training.
• Regular stretching exercises improve joint flexibility which is crucial for optimum sports performance.
• Using each joint type’s optimal movement range can maximise power and maintain efficiency during performances.

Monitor and Protect Joint Movement

• Athletes should strive to protect their joints against sprain, strain, dislocation, or other injury.
• Wearing suitable protective equipment, such as knee and elbow pads, can prevent severe joint injuries.
• Athletes should maintain optimum hydration and adequate nutrition for proper joint lubrication and health.
• Proper warm-up and cool-down are central to a healthy joint movement and injury prevention. Regular medical check-ups and physiotherapy sessions can help monitor joint integrity and function.