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Flexion-extension rhythm in the lumbosacral spine
1Department of Orthopedics, National Cheng-Kung University Medical College, Tainan, Taiwan.
Spine
|October 1, 1994
Summary
Dynamic lumbosacral radiographs reveal that spinal flexibility varies by level. Understanding these normal ranges of motion, including intervertebral rotation and translation, is crucial for accurate assessment.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Biomechanics
- Radiology
Background:
- Assessing spinal biomechanics is essential for understanding low back pain.
- Dynamic lumbosacral radiographs provide insights into spinal motion.
- Normal ranges of intervertebral motion are not fully defined.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantitatively and qualitatively analyze intervertebral rotation and translation.
- To examine motion from L1-L2 to L5-S1 during flexion, standing, and extension.
- To establish normal parameters for spinal flexibility.
Main Methods:
- Dynamic lumbosacral radiographs were used in 89 volunteers.
- A radiopaque ruler normalized translational measurements.
- Intervertebral motion was assessed in extension, standing, and flexion.
Main Results:
- Intervertebral rotations decreased from lordotic positions to near 0 degrees during flexion.
- Translations shifted from retro-listhetic to zero displacement.
- Significant differences in rotation (5 degrees) and translation (1.5 mm) were observed at L5-S1 compared to other levels.
Conclusions:
- Spinal flexibility is level-dependent, with L5-S1 exhibiting distinct motion patterns.
- Quantitative and qualitative analysis of intervertebral motion aids in defining normal spinal flexibility.
- These findings contribute to a more accurate understanding of lumbosacral biomechanics.