Compression in joint assessment is defined as which of the following?

• A. Torsion
• B. Approximation
• C. Separation
• D. Rotation

Answer: (B)

Compression in joint assessment means bringing the joint surfaces toward one another, i.e., approximation. This maneuver loads the articular surfaces and increases joint congruence, helping to provoke pain, assess end feel, and evaluate stability under a compressive load. It contrasts with separation (distraction), which pulls the surfaces apart, and with rotation or torsion, which involve turning around an axis rather than reducing the joint space.