If the forearm rotates so the palm faces downward, what term describes this motion?

If the forearm rotates so the palm faces downward, what term describes this motion?

• A. Flexion
• B. Eversion
• C. Pronation
• D. Supination

Answer: (C)

Pronation describes the forearm rotation that brings the palm facing downward. This movement occurs at the radioulnar joints as the radius rotates over the ulna, turning the palm from a forward-facing position toward the back or bottom. Supination is the opposite action, turning the palm upward or forward. Flexion would change the angle of a joint (like bending the elbow or wrist), not the orientation of the palm, and eversion refers to turning the sole of the foot outward, not a forearm motion.

Pronation describes the forearm rotation that brings the palm facing downward. This movement occurs at the radioulnar joints as the radius rotates over the ulna, turning the palm from a forward-facing position toward the back or bottom. Supination is the opposite action, turning the palm upward or forward. Flexion would change the angle of a joint (like bending the elbow or wrist), not the orientation of the palm, and eversion refers to turning the sole of the foot outward, not a forearm motion.