What does "abduction" refer to in body movement?

Abduction refers specifically to the movement of a limb or body part away from the midline, or central axis, of the body. This action increases the angle between the body part and the midline, effectively moving it outward. For instance, when you lift your arm sideways away from your body or spread your fingers, you are performing abduction.

This term is important for understanding various movements involved in physical activities, anatomy, and rehabilitation. The clarity of the term 'abduction' helps differentiate it from other movements, such as adduction, which involves moving a body part toward the midline. Understanding these definitions can be vital in healthcare settings, particularly in assessing patient mobility and planning their care.