What is Normal Range of Motion in the Neck and Low Back

What are normal ranges of motion for the neck and low back?

It is important to know the normal ranges of motion for your neck and low back because if there is a decrease there is likely a joint problem or a muscle/fascia problem.

First we start with the Cervical spine normal active range of motion:

            Flexion: 60^o

            Extension: 60^o

            Lateral Flexion x2: 45^o

            Rotation x2: 80^o

The Lumbar Spine normal active range of motion is as follows:

            Flexion: 70-90^o

            Extension: 30^o

            Lateral Flexion: 30^o

            Rotation: 30^o

If you have an increased active range of motion in the cervical (neck) or the Lumbar (low back) you could possibly have ligament laxity. This renders the spine unstable and needs to be addressed by your doctor. To check for ligament laxity a physical exam and an X-ray should be performed with the joints in question being stressed into whatever range is increased.

If you have a decrease in Range of motion in the cervical or lumbar spine you probably have muscle/fascia adhesion and tightness limiting your mobility. Another more likely scenario is that you have some fixation in your vertebra, we call this intersegmental dysfunction or subluxation, this is best addressed by your local chiropractor. The motion restriction and muscle tightness often exist together but can be separate as well.

If you are in North Texas and are looking for a chiropractor in Fort Worth give us a call (682) 703-1529. Park Hill Chiropractic offer free consultations and Dr. Seth Elliott performs a variety of non-invasive treatments from chiropractic manipulation to active release and therapeutic exercise programs.

Park Hill Chiropractic in Fort Worth, TX