What does pronation refer to in the context of body movement?

Pronation refers specifically to the movement of the forearm or foot where it rotates inward. In the context of the forearm, pronation involves the medial rotation so that the palm faces downward or backward, while the radius crosses over the ulna. When referring to the foot, pronation describes how the foot rolls inward during walking or running, which can also correspond to the medial arch collapsing. This movement is essential for the proper function and balance of the body during various activities, particularly in athletic performance, where understanding foot mechanics can aid in injury prevention and improvement of efficiency.

Medial rotation is an important aspect of this definition, as pronation involves rotating toward the center of the body, making it clear why this option accurately describes the concept of pronation in the broader context of body movement.