What is the term for turning a body part outward?

The term used to describe the action of turning a body part outward is eversion. This term specifically refers to the movement of the foot or other body parts away from the midline of the body, resulting in the sole facing outward. In terms of anatomical movements, eversion is important for activities such as balancing and walking, as it allows for proper distribution of weight and stability on uneven surfaces.

Inversion, on the other hand, is the opposite motion, where the foot turns inward, bringing the sole closer to the midline of the body. Flexion and extension refer to movements that decrease or increase the angle at a joint respectively; flexion reduces the angle between body parts, while extension increases it. Understanding these terms is essential for comprehending human movement and anatomical positioning, particularly in fields related to health science and physical therapy.