Osteokinematic Motion

Osteokinematic Motion: Movement of bones around a joint. Osteokinematic motions are the motions commonly referred to as "joint actions." Examples of osteokinematic motions include flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, internal rotation, external rotation, etc.

• Note the term "osteokinematic motion" is distinct from "arthrokinematic motion ." Arthrokinematic motions are the small motions between joint surfaces that aid in maintaining joint surface congruence and include spin, glide (slide), roll, distraction (traction), and compression.

Range of motion (ROM) most often refers to osteokinematic motion, whereas passive accessory motion most often refers to arthrokinematic motion.

For more information on joint actions, check out our course and video lecture:

• Lesson 3: Joint Actions

For more information on arthrokinematic motions, check out our course and video lecture:

• Lesson 20: More on The Human Movement Systems