In facet positional dysfunction, how are rotation and side bending affected?

In facet positional dysfunction, how are rotation and side bending affected?

• A. They are independent of flexion/extension.
• B. They are enhanced with flexion.
• C. They are always restricted bilaterally.
• D. They are coupled with flexion/extension; restrictions follow the same side rules based on flexion/extension.

Answer: (D)

In facet dysfunction the motion of rotation and side bending is not independent; it is coupled with flexion or extension. When the spine is flexed or extended, rotation and side bending occur in the same direction, and the restrictive barrier follows that same side. This means the dysfunction is unilateral and tied to what position the spine is in, with the limitation moving and locking on the same side as the coupled motion. That’s why the best description is that rotation and side bending are coupled with flexion/extension, and the restrictions follow the same side rules based on that flexion or extension.

In facet dysfunction the motion of rotation and side bending is not independent; it is coupled with flexion or extension. When the spine is flexed or extended, rotation and side bending occur in the same direction, and the restrictive barrier follows that same side. This means the dysfunction is unilateral and tied to what position the spine is in, with the limitation moving and locking on the same side as the coupled motion. That’s why the best description is that rotation and side bending are coupled with flexion/extension, and the restrictions follow the same side rules based on that flexion or extension.