Internal rotation is also known as what type of rotation?

Internal rotation is synonymous with medial rotation. This term refers to a movement where a limb or body segment turns inward toward the center of the body. In anatomical terms, when a structure (such as an arm or leg) undergoes internal rotation, it moves in such a way that the anterior surface faces more towards the midline of the body.

Understanding the concept of internal or medial rotation is crucial in fields like physical therapy, fitness training, and anatomy, as it relates to how joints and muscles interact during movement. For instance, when performing certain exercises, knowing how to execute internal rotation correctly ensures proper biomechanics and helps prevent injuries.

Other options mention various types of rotations that do not accurately define internal rotation. Lateral rotation, for example, refers to the outward movement away from the body’s midline, which is the opposite of internal rotation. Transverse rotation generally describes rotational movement around a vertical axis, applicable in various contexts, but does not directly relate to the inward turning action themselves. Reciprocal rotation is not a standard term used in anatomy, making it less relevant in this context. Thus, recognizing medial rotation as the proper term clarifies the action of internal rotation.