L2L - Lumbar biomechanics

Lumbar spine has how many degrees of freedom?

• 1
• 3
• 2

Answer explanation

Flexion/extension, side flexion, rotation

What happens osteokinematically during lumbar flexion (L4/5)

• Posterior sagittal rotation and posterior translation

• Anterior sagittal rotation and anterior translation

• Antero-superior glide

• Anterior sagittal rotation and antero-superior glide

What glide would you do to improve lumbar right sideflexion (L3/4). (Choose all that apply).

• Supero-anterior glide left L3 on L4

• Poster-inferior glide on right L3 on L4

• Supero-anterior glide on right L3 on L4

• Postero-inferior glide on left L3 on L4

Which of these structures resist lumbar flexion? (Choose all that apply)

• Disc

• Z-joint Capsule

• Anterior Longitudinal Logiament

• Posterior Longitudinal Ligament

Which structure/unit is the main restraint for lumbar axial compression?

• Z-joints

• Vertebral Body/disc

Lumbar spine flexion can be improved by applying an inferior/posterior glide to the facet joints bilaterally.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Superior/anterior

Which glide direction is used when attempting to improve lumbar spine lateral flexion to the left? (Choose all that apply).

• • Inferior/posterior glide of the right facet joint

• • Inferior/posterior glide of the left facet joint

• Superior/anterior glide of the right facet joint

• Superior/anterior glide of the left facet joint

Lumbar spine sideflexion is coupled with contralateral rotation at all levels

• False

• True

Answer explanation

L1-L4 = Contralateral Coupling

L4/5 = Variable

L5/S1 = Ipsilateral Coupling

But not consistent!

Superior-anterior glide of L3 on L4 will improve lumbar (a)  

Which movement will maximally "open" the lumbar facet joint

• Extension, contralateral sideflexion/rotation

• Flexion, ipsilateral sideflexion/rotation

• Flexion, contralateral sideflexion/rotation

• Extension, ipsilateral sideflexion/rotation

Answer explanation

Conversely, extension, ipsilateral sideflexion and rotation will maximally "close" the joint.