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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is an example of a special movement at a joint?
A
Extension of the knee
B
Abduction of the arm
C
Flexion of the elbow
D
Opposition of the thumb
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of special movements: Special movements are unique actions that occur at specific joints and are not part of the general categories of movement like flexion, extension, abduction, or adduction.
Review the definition of opposition: Opposition refers to the movement in which the thumb is brought across the palm to touch the tips of the fingers. This movement is unique to the thumb and is considered a special movement.
Compare opposition to other movements: Extension, abduction, and flexion are general movements that occur at various joints in the body, whereas opposition is specific to the thumb and is classified as a special movement.
Identify the anatomical structures involved in opposition: The thumb's opposition movement is facilitated by the saddle joint at the base of the thumb (carpometacarpal joint) and involves muscles such as the opponens pollicis.
Conclude why opposition is the correct answer: Opposition of the thumb is a special movement because it is unique to the thumb and allows humans to perform precise tasks like grasping objects, distinguishing it from general movements like extension, abduction, or flexion.