Neutral Motion Mechanics

Coupled movement of a group of three or more vertebrae from the neutral position is characterized by sidebending and rotation occurring in opposite directions. For example, when the lumbar spine is in extension (backward-bending) or the neutral position (easy normal), right rotation results in left sidebending, while left rotation results in right sidebending. Click here to view an animation showing neutral (Type I) motion mechanics in the lumbar spine.

as he discusses neutral (Type I) motion mechanics in the lumbar spine.

When a group of three or more vertebrae are motion restricted, there will be an alteration in the lateral curvature of the affected segments. These group dysfunctions are also described as neutral group restrictions, displaying neutral (Type I) mechanics with the restricted coupled movement being sidebending to one side and rotation to the opposite side. Upon examination of a patient, the operator will notice a charateristic fullness overlying the transverse processes of the affected vertebrae. The operator may notice a change in fullness during forward-bending and backward-bending, but there will be no position in which the transverse processes on each side become symetrical.

as he discusses the characteristics of a group dysfunction.

Click here to visualize flexion and extension of a group dysfunction that is convex left -- -- -- .
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