What does supination refer to in joint movement?

Supination refers to the movement of a joint, particularly in the forearm and foot, where the palm of the hand or the sole of the foot is turned upward or forward. In the context of the forearm, this involves rotating the radius and ulna to position the palm facing upward, as if you are holding a bowl of soup. This motion is fundamental in various physical activities and is essential for tasks that require an open hand.

This upward turning distinguishes supination from related movements such as pronation, which involves turning the palm downward. Understanding these specific movements is crucial in anatomy and kinesiology, especially in fields related to physical therapy, sports medicine, and rehabilitation, where precise descriptions of joint movements are important for assessment and treatment planning.