Frádrætti

Frádrætti is an anatomical term used to describe the movement of a body part away from the midline of the body. It is commonly applied to limb movement but can also refer to movements such as eye abduction. In medical and kinesiology contexts, frádrætti is typically discussed together with adduction, which is movement toward the midline.

Etymology and usage: the word combines frá-, meaning away from, with drætti (from dráttur, a pulling or dragging motion). In Icelandic medical literature, frádrætti denotes the outward movement of a joint or body segment, such as the shoulder, hip, fingers, or eyes.

Examples and mechanics: shoulder frádrætti occurs when the arm is moved laterally away from the body, from the anatomical position. The primary muscles responsible are the deltoid (middle fibers) and the supraspinatus, with assistance from related scapular stabilizers at higher ranges. Hip frádrætti involves the gluteus medius and minimus, as well as the tensor fasciae latae. Finger frádrætti engages the dorsal interossei, while toe frádrætti also involves intrinsic foot muscles. The range and smoothness of frádrætti are commonly evaluated in clinical and sports settings to assess joint function and muscle strength.

Clinical relevance: assessing frádrætti helps identify nerve or muscle impairment, such as reduced shoulder abduction due to axillary nerve injury or hip abductor weakness from neuropathy or muscular atrophy. Clinicians may use specific range-of-motion measurements and resistance tests to gauge strength and mobility.

See also: Adduction, Abductor muscles, Range of motion, Goniometry.