Spinal Flexion

Trunk/Spinal flexion refers to bending or curving the trunk/spine forward.

 

The Left figure shows trunk in flexion

Weakness leads to

  • Improper posture
  • Specific areas stiffer
  • Specific areas overstretched

Strengthen by

  • Lumbar flexion
  • Building muscle strength
  • Relaxing the stiffness
  • Destraining the overstretched

Anatomy

Prime movers

  • Rectus Abdominis

Synergists

  • External Obliques
  • Internal Obliques
  • Psoas

Antagonist

  • Erector Spinae
  • Latissimus Dorsi

Major Functions

Enabling movement

Allows for bending forward, lifting, and arching the lower back. Movements such as picking up objects and engaging in various sports activities.

Posture

The muscles of the back and spine work together to maintain a healthy posture.
Proper posture helps distribute weight evenly, reduces strain on the spine, and improves overall body alignment.

Supporting body weight

The lumbar spine bears most of the upper body weight and distributes it into the legs.
This support is crucial for maintaining balance and stability, especially during activities like standing, walking, and lifting.

 

Protecting Spinal Cord

Spinal flexion also assists in stabilizing the vertebral column and plays a role in proprioception (awareness of body position) and balance.
The flexibility of the spine allows for adjustments in posture and movement, further protecting the spinal cord from injury.

Bibliography

  1. Savitri. (n.d.). Savitri. https://savitri.in/blogs/savitri-cultural/53-degrees-of-motion-of-the-spine.

  2. Isaacson, J. (2023, November 21). Cervical Facet Joint Pain | Complete Physio. Complete Physio. https://complete-physio.co.uk/cervical-facet-joint-pain/

  3. Ivanenko, Y., & Gurfinkel, V. S. (2018). Human postural control. Frontiers in Neuroscience, 12. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnins.2018.00171