What does pronation of the forearm mean?

• A. Turn the hand so the palm faces up
• B. Turn the hand so the palm faces down
• C. Turn the hand so the palm faces inward
• D. Turn the hand so the palm faces outward

Answer: (B)

Pronation of the forearm refers to the rotational movement where the radius and ulna bones of the forearm cross over each other, resulting in the palm of the hand facing downwards. This anatomical position is essential for various activities, such as typing or playing certain sports, where the palm needs to be oriented down. Understanding this motion is critical in fields like physical therapy and sports medicine, as it has implications for joint mobility and function.

In contrast, other options represent different hand orientations: turning the palm up is known as supination, while turning the hand inward or outward refers to specific movements of the forearm that do not involve pronation.