What term refers to the action of bending the toes and foot upwards at the ankle?

Dorsiflexion is the term that describes the action of bending the toes and foot upwards at the ankle. This movement occurs at the ankle joint, whereby the foot moves closer to the front of the leg. Dorsiflexion is essential in activities such as walking, running, and climbing, as it allows for greater clearance of the foot from the ground and helps facilitate proper gait mechanics.

In contrast, plantarflexion denotes the movement of pointing the toes downward, as seen when standing on tiptoes. Abduction refers to the movement of a limb away from the midline of the body, while adduction is the movement towards the midline. Understanding these definitions helps clarify the specific actions associated with each term, ensuring a comprehensive grasp of anatomical movements.