Which motion occurs when you move your arm in a circle at the shoulder?

When you move your arm in a circle at the shoulder, the motion involved is called circumduction. This movement combines multiple types of actions, including flexion, extension, abduction, and adduction, resulting in a circular motion of the arm. As the arm travels in a circular path, the shoulder joint allows for this complex movement due to its ball-and-socket structure, which permits a wide range of motion.

Circumduction is commonly seen in activities like swimming or throwing, where the arm is moved in a circular manner. Understanding this concept is essential for recognizing how different body movements are classified, particularly in fields like chiropractic care, where knowledge of joint mechanics and anatomy is crucial for effective treatment and patient education.