Referencing Movements Of The Foot And Hand

Referring To The Foot And Hand In Physiotherapy

The foot and hand are unique structures with specific terminology and movement patterns. In physiotherapy, as in general medicine, these areas involve distinct terms used to describe both anatomy and motion. The palm of the hand (referred to as the palmar surface) corresponds to the sole of the foot (known as the plantar surface). For example, when referring to the palmar aspect of the hand, we’re talking about the palm side. Similarly, the plantar surface refers to the bottom of the foot.

The term volar—used mostly in orthopaedics—is interchangeable with both palmar and plantar. Meanwhile, the back of the hand is known as the dorsum, and this corresponds with the top of the foot (what you see when standing upright in the anatomical position).

From these directional terms, specific movement terms for the ankle are derived. These include:

• Dorsiflexion – Upward movement of the foot at the ankle (true extension).
• Plantarflexion – Downward movement of the foot (true flexion).

Movements Unique To The Feet And Hands

Beyond simple flexion and extension, the foot can also move along a different axis due to the flexibility of the ankle. These additional movements include:

• Eversion – The sole of the foot moves away from the median plane, causing the big toe to turn outward from the body’s midline.
• Inversion – The sole moves toward the median plane, bringing the big toe inward toward the midline. This is the common movement seen in ankle sprains, which is why they’re often called “inversion sprains.”

Similarly, the wrist—alongside flexion, extension, and side-to-side deviation—has additional rotation movements. These occur along a different axis and involve both the wrist and elbow:

• Pronation – A rotational movement where the hand turns so the palm faces backward (posteriorly) in the anatomical position. This is not the same as medial rotation of the entire limb. It is most easily demonstrated with the elbow bent at 90 degrees.
• Supination – The reverse of pronation, where the palm rotates to face forward (anteriorly). Pronation and supination are often observed when rotating the forearm or turning a doorknob.

Disclaimer: Sydney Physio Clinic provides this information as an educational service and is not intended to serve as medical advice. Anyone seeking specific advice or assistance on Referencing Movements Of The Foot And Hand should consult his or her physiotherapist, general practitioner or another appropriately qualified practitioner.