Movements of the lumbar spine Flashcards
what movements occur In the Lumbar Spine?
flexion, extension, lateral flexion and rotation
degree of flexion In the Lumbar Spine
55
how does flexion occur In the Lumbar Spine?
the lower articular processes of the upper vertebrae glide upwards and forwards on the upper processes of the vertebrae below
what limits flexion In the Lumbar Spine?
Flexion is limited by tension in the intervertebral disc, posteriorly, the posterior longitudinal ligament and the supraspinous and interspinous ligaments
degrees of extension In the Lumbar Spine
30
how does extension occur In the Lumbar Spine?
the upper vertebra tilts and slides posteriorly on the lower vertebral body + compression of the disc, posteriorly
what limits extension In the Lumbar Spine?
Extension is limited by tension in the anterior longitudinal ligament, the anterior part of the intervertebral disc, and opposition of the lumbar spinous processes and close-packing of the facet joints
degrees of lateral flexion in the lumbar spine
20-30
how does lateral flexion occur In the Lumbar Spine?
the lower articular facet on the laterally flexed side glides downwards and backwards on the superior process of the vertebra below + compression of the disc to the opposite side: on the other side each articular process moves forwards and upwards over the process of the vertebra below. Thus lateral flexion is always accompanied by slight rotation to the same side
what limits lateral flexion In the Lumbar Spine?
Lateral flexion is limited by tension in the inter-transverse ligaments of the opposite side, opposing muscle groups and disc
degrees of rotation In the Lumbar Spine
5
describe rotation In the Lumbar Spine.
there is limited rotation in the lumbar spine, but it is estimated that each motion segment (i.e. 2 vertebral bodies and one disc) rotates to one degree.
