Hawaii Massage License Practice Exam

In the anatomical position, what is it called when the palms are turned backward?

1. Supination

2. Pronation

3. Elevation

4. Opposition

The correct answer is: Pronation

In the anatomical position, when the palms are turned backward, this movement is referred to as pronation. In this context, pronation describes the rotation of the forearm or the position of the hands so that the palms face posteriorly (the back of the body). This is significant in understanding human movement and anatomical terms, as it establishes a clear distinction in orientation relative to the body’s standard positioning. In contrast, supination refers to the opposite movement where the palms face forward, which is essential for activities like holding a bowl of soup. Furthermore, elevation pertains to movements that involve lifting a body part superiorly, such as shrugging the shoulders, while opposition describes the movement of bringing the thumb and little finger together. Understanding these terms allows practitioners in fields like massage therapy to communicate effectively about body movements and positions.