Joint Types and Movement Terminology
Identify joint structures and apply precise movement terms such as flexion, extension, abduction, adduction and rotation.
How to prepare for the written examination
Move from accurate theory to a scenario-specific mechanism, consequence, evidence and judgement. Complete all practical performance and NEA work only through authorised centre arrangements.
Core concepts
Concept 1
Joint structure affects the range and directions of movement possible.
Exam cue: Name the joint, identify its type and then state the movement occurring.
Concept 2
Movement terms describe a change in joint angle or position relative to the body's reference position.
Exam cue: Use start and finish positions to distinguish paired movements.
Concept 3
A sporting action may involve several joints performing different movements at the same time.
Exam cue: Follow the current board's required vocabulary for ankle, hip, shoulder and other joints.
Risk pitfalls and guardrails
Naming a body part instead of the joint action.
Guardrail: Do not replace explanation with a named sport, an undated current example or practical work that belongs to NEA.
Assuming every joint permits the same movements.
Guardrail: Do not replace explanation with a named sport, an undated current example or practical work that belongs to NEA.
Describing the whole skill without isolating the requested phase.
Guardrail: Do not replace explanation with a named sport, an undated current example or practical work that belongs to NEA.
Memory anchors
Hinge-joint pattern
Movement mainly occurs in one plane, commonly flexion and extension.
Ball-and-socket pattern
Movement is possible in multiple directions, including rotation.
Joint flexion
The angle at a joint decreases.
Joint extension
The angle at a joint increases.
Abduction-adduction pair
Abduction moves away from the midline; adduction moves toward it.
Checkpoint rule
Do the check-up only after you can summarize each concept in one sentence and identify one dangerous pitfall from memory.
Knowledge Check (after reading)
Short check-up to confirm understanding of this module.
Check-up Questions
Which joint type is found at the elbow?
Which movement decreases the angle at a joint?
Answer all questions to submit.
Next step personalized recommendations
Continue learning
Move forward only after this module is stable.
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