Dorsiflexion
Pronunciation: dor-si-FLEK-shun
The upward bending of the foot or toes toward the shin, a key movement parameter assessed and managed with lower-limb orthoses.
Full Definition
Dorsiflexion refers to the anatomical movement in which the dorsum (top) of the foot is brought toward the anterior surface of the leg. In orthotics, adequate dorsiflexion is critical for normal gait mechanics; restricted dorsiflexion is a primary indication for AFOs and other lower-limb devices. Editors must distinguish dorsiflexion from plantarflexion (the opposite motion) and ensure neither term is hyphenated, as both are standard single-word anatomical terms. Dorsiflexion also applies to the wrist and hand, though orthotics contexts most commonly reference the ankle.
Usage
Usage note: Do not hyphenate. Do not confuse with 'eversion' (outward rolling) or 'inversion' (inward rolling). In wrist contexts, also called 'wrist extension.'
In Context
- "The hinged AFO was set at five degrees of dorsiflexion to facilitate heel strike during ambulation." — Orthotics prescription form
- "Editors should verify that 'dorsiflexion' and 'plantarflexion' are consistently unhyphenated throughout the report." — Style review note