Your arm can rotate a significant amount, but it's important to differentiate between types of rotation. When discussing how far your arm can rotate, we need to specify which movement we're talking about. This answer will focus on medial rotation, also known as internal rotation, as defined in the reference.
Understanding Arm Rotation
Arm rotation can be broken into several types:
- Medial Rotation (Internal Rotation): This is when you rotate your arm towards the midline of your body, like closing a cabinet door.
- Lateral Rotation (External Rotation): The opposite of medial rotation, this is when you rotate your arm away from the midline.
Range of Motion for Medial Rotation
Based on the reference, a healthy shoulder can achieve a considerable range of motion during medial rotation.
| Type of Rotation | Normal Range of Motion |
|---|---|
| Medial (Internal) | 70 to 90 degrees |
Practical Insights
- Everyday Examples: Think about reaching behind your back or tucking your elbow into your side; these are movements that involve medial rotation.
- Variations: The actual range can vary from person to person depending on factors such as age, fitness level, and any previous injuries.
- Importance: A good range of medial rotation is essential for performing many everyday activities and participating in various sports.
In Conclusion
The normal range of motion for a healthy shoulder during medial (internal) rotation is between 70 and 90 degrees. This type of rotation is crucial for many daily movements and activities.
