What type of movement is characterized by a joint moving on an axis and altering its angle?

Flexion is a type of movement that occurs at a joint and involves decreasing the angle between two body parts. This action is characterized by a bending motion that brings two segments closer together. For instance, when you bend your elbow or knee, you are performing flexion; the angle of the joint decreases as the forearm moves toward the upper arm or the lower leg moves toward the thigh.

The significance of flexion lies in its fundamental role in various physical activities and movements, contributing to the dynamic range of motion needed for daily tasks and athletic performance. By understanding this movement, one can better appreciate the biomechanical principles that guide joint function and physical therapy approaches for joint rehabilitation.

In contrast, extension would involve increasing the angle at the joint, while reflection and translation refer to different types of movements not focused on angular change at a joint.