Final answer:
The thoracic spine, limited by its connection to the rib cage, has normal flexion ROM of about 20 to 45 degrees, while the lumbar spine has a greater ROM for flexion, approximately 40 to 60 degrees, due to its structural anatomy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The normal range of motion (ROM) for the thoracic and lumbar spine in flexion varies but can be characterized as follows:
- The thoracic spine has a more limited range of flexion due to the anatomy of the vertebrae and their connection to the rib cage. Normal ROM for thoracic spine flexion is typically about 20 to 45 degrees.
- The lumbar spine allows for a greater degree of flexion, as the lumbar vertebrae are structured to permit more movement in this direction. Normal ROM for lumbar spine flexion is roughly 40 to 60 degrees.
Flexion and extension are movements that occur in the sagittal plane, with flexion involving a forward bend and extension representing the movement of straightening from a flexed position or bending backward. Lateral flexion occurs in the coronal plane and involves bending toward the side. The orientation of the articular processes in the spine influences the range of motion permissible in each spinal region, with each region of the spinal column varying in its ROM limitations due to its structural characteristics.