American Board of Surgical Assistants (ABSA) Orthopedic Practice Test

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Prepare for the ABSA Orthopedic Test. Utilize flashcards and multiple-choice questions with detailed hints and explanations. Boost your exam readiness!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

Practice this question and more.

In terms of muscle function, what role does an abductor serve?

Moving a limb closer to the body
Rotating a limb internally
Moving a limb away from the body
Stabilizing the body during movement

The correct answer is: Moving a limb away from the body

An abductor is a muscle that is specifically responsible for moving a limb away from the midline of the body. This movement is essential for various physical activities, including walking, running, and jumping, as it allows for greater range and coordination of motion. For example, the hip abductors, such as the gluteus medius and minimus, play a crucial role in stabilizing the pelvis during activities that involve weight-bearing on one leg. Additionally, abductors contribute to balance and postural control, which are vital for athletic performance and general movement. Understanding the function of these muscles is fundamental in the study of biomechanics and kinesiology, especially when assessing movements and planning rehabilitation or training programs.