Horizontal Adduction

Horizontal Adduction (a.k.a. Horizontal Flexion): A transverse plane joint action that results in movement toward the midline of the body.

• Opposing Joint Action: Horizontal Abduction
• Plane of Motion: Transverse (Horizontal) Plane
• Direction Bias: Inward
• Note: Joint actions may be referred to as "osteokinematic motions" or "osteokinematic joint actions" to differentiate them from "arthrokinematic motions " (e.g., spin, glide, roll, compression, and distraction).

For more (including a video lecture), check out:

• Lesson 3: Joint Actions

Joints that Perform Horizontal Adduction (and Sample Exercises):

1. Shoulder joint (Glenohumeral joint):  Horizontal adduction (horizontal extension) occurs when the humerus moves toward the midline of the body in the transverse plane, as observed during chest exercises like push-ups, bench press , and dumbbell press .
2. Hip joint : Horizontal adduction occurs when the femur moves toward the midline of the body in the transverse/horizontal plane, as observed during a seated adductor (inner thigh) machine.