Motions of the Cervical and Lumbar Spine

Question 1

In the Cervical Spine what is the relationship between side bending and rotation?

Answer 1

Side Bending and Rotation occur in the SAME direction.

Question 2

In the Lumbar Spine what is the relationship between side bending and rotation?

Answer 2

Side Bending and Rotation occur in the Opposite directions.

Question 3

Which motion couples will cause closing of the Lumbar Spine?

Answer 3

• Lumbar Extension
• Ipsilateral Side Flexion
• Contralateral Rotation

Question 4

In the lumbar spine what motion is the “key” for opening the lumbar spine?

Answer 4

Flexion

Question 5

In the lumbar spine what motion is the “key” for closing the lumbar spine?

Answer 5

Extension

Question 6

In the lumbar spine what combination of motions will cause opening?

Answer 6

• Lumbar Flexion
• Contralateral side flexion
• Ipsilateral rotation