Pronación

Pronación refers to the internal rotation of the forearm and hand. When the palm of the hand faces downwards, the forearm is pronated. This motion is opposite to supination, where the palm faces upwards. Pronation is a natural and essential movement for many everyday activities, such as turning a doorknob, writing, or eating. The muscles responsible for pronation are primarily the pronator teres and pronator quadratus.

Abnormal pronation can occur in various contexts. In biomechanics, excessive pronation of the foot can lead to issues like flat feet or plantar fasciitis. This overpronation means the arch of the foot collapses excessively inward during the gait cycle. Similarly, in sports, certain movements might involve pronation, and if not executed correctly or with adequate strength and control, it can contribute to injuries. Medical conditions affecting the nerves or muscles of the arm can also impair pronation. Treatment for pronation-related issues often involves physical therapy, orthotics, or, in some cases, surgical intervention. Understanding pronation is crucial for diagnosing and managing musculoskeletal conditions and optimizing athletic performance.