What movement is best defined by the action of bringing a limb towards the midline of the body?

Adduction is the term used to describe the movement that brings a limb toward the midline of the body. In anatomical terms, the midline refers to an imaginary vertical line that divides the body into equal right and left halves. When a limb, such as an arm or a leg, moves closer to this midline, it demonstrates adduction. This movement is essential in various physical activities and therapeutic exercises, as it helps in maintaining balance, coordination, and alignment of the body.

In contrast, abduction refers to the movement away from the midline, flexion refers to decreasing the angle at a joint (such as bending the elbow), and extension refers to increasing the angle at a joint (such as straightening the elbow). Understanding these terms is crucial in massage therapy and anatomy, as it allows therapists to accurately describe movements and plan treatments.