Comparison between tape measurements of forward and lateral flexion of the spine

Forward and lateral flexion measures of spinal mobility were obtained with both inclinometric and tape methods from 476 low back pain patients. The tape measurements were compared as to correlation with a score of back pain-related disability. Tape measurement methods were compared with inclinometric measurements, and the relative effects of height, weight, lordosis, and kyphosis were established. Lateral flexion, measured as the distance the hand moves down the thigh, correlated better with corresponding inclinometric measurements and with the degree of back pain-related disability than forward flexion measured with skin distension methods. Tape measurements of forward flexion but not that of lateral flexion were significantly affected by weight and lordosis. The results indicate that tape measurement of lateral flexion is preferable to those of forward flexion in assessment of low back pain patients.