
Spine Range of Motion
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Spinal lateral bending 30°, rotation 40°, flexion 70° (standing and lying), hyperextension 70°.
Detail
The Joint ROM chart gives these values for the spine: spinal lateral bending 30 degrees; spinal rotation 40 degrees (handwritten note: very limited in the lumbar region); spinal flexion standing 70 degrees; spinal flexion lying down 70 degrees; spinal hyperextension 70 degrees. The abdominals diagram similarly notes the spine flexes through a full range of motion of approximately 70 degrees, laterally bends approximately 30 degrees, and rotates approximately 40 degrees with hips in a fixed position. Functional ROM of the spine is strongly age-dependent, decreasing by 50 percent from youth to old age; men have greater mobility in flexion and extension, while women are more mobile in lateral flexion.
Key facts
- Spinal lateral bending: 30°.
- Spinal rotation: 40° (very limited in lumbar region).
- Spinal flexion: 70° (standing and lying).
- Spinal hyperextension: 70°.
- Spine ROM decreases ~50% from youth to old age.
- Men: greater flexion/extension; women: greater lateral flexion.
Connections
- Spinal Column (Vertebral Column) — the structure that moves.
- Joint Range of Motion Chart — master ROM table.
Sources
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Educational content only — not medical advice. Always consult a qualified professional for individualized guidance, especially around injury, pregnancy, or medical conditions.