CLOSE-PACKED POSITION
Each synovial joint has a point in its range of motion where:
- its surfaces are maximally congruent
- its capsule and ligaments are maximally elongated and taut.
- its surfaces are maximally compressed
Points in the range of motion that are not close-packed positions are "loose-packed positions."
Source:
Hertling, D., & Kessler, R.M. (1996). Management of common musculoskeletal disorders: Physical therapy principles and methods (3rd ed.). Philadelphia: Lippincott, pp. 27-28.