In medical terminology, what does "flex/o" imply about a movement?

The term "flex/o" in medical terminology specifically refers to the action of bending. This prefix derives from the Latin word "flectere," which means "to bend or curve." In various anatomical contexts, such as in relation to joints and body parts, "flexion" describes the movement that decreases the angle between two parts of the body—like bending the elbow or knee.

Understanding this term is crucial for interpreting medical descriptions of movements and conditions. For example, when a physician mentions that a patient has limited flexion in a joint, it indicates difficulty in bending that joint properly. This highlights the relevance of the term "flex/o" in both describing movements and diagnosing musculoskeletal issues.