What does pronation refer to in terms of hand position?

Pronation specifically describes the action of turning the palm downward or facing posteriorly. This term is often used in anatomy and physical therapy to denote the position of the hand in relation to the forearm. When you pronate your hand, your thumb rotates inward toward the body, and the palm faces down.

Understanding pronation is important, especially in clinical settings, because it helps healthcare providers assess a patient’s range of motion and functionality in the arms and hands. The other options refer to different hand positions: supination for turning the palm upward, keeping a flat palm does not involve rotation, and folding fingers inward describes a flexion action rather than the orientation of the palm. This clarity on the concept of pronation aids in communication among healthcare professionals and ensures accurate assessments and interventions.