What is indicated by the prefix "flex/o" in medical terms?

The prefix "flex/o" derives from the Latin word "flexus," which means "to bend." In medical terminology, it is commonly associated with actions involving the bending of body parts, such as joints. For example, terms like "flexion" refer to the process of decreasing the angle between two body parts (bending the elbow or knee) while "extend" refers to increasing that angle. Therefore, when encountering terms with "flex/o," it indicates movements related to bending rather than relaxing, extending, or compressing. This understanding is crucial when practicing and interpreting medical terms in a professional setting.