Spine Anatomy and Structure
What region of the spine provides the most rotation?
Cervical (particularly C1‑C2)
Forward head posture most heavily loads what region?
Cervical spine (lower segments)
Centralization of symptoms indicates what?
Improvement in disc or nerve-root irritation.
What is the primary purpose of deep cervical flexor training?
Segmental control & postural support
If a patient experiences new radicular symptoms, the PTA should…
Stop and report to the supervising PT.
Which spinal curves are normal in the sagittal plane?
Cervical & lumbar lordosis; thoracic kyphosis
What postural correction reduces lumbar disc pressure when sitting?
Neutral spine with anterior pelvic tilt support
Patients with spinal stenosis typically prefer which bias?
Flexion bias
Prone press‑ups are typically used for which condition?
Lumbar disc herniation (extension bias)
Which factor determines whether resistance can be progressed?
Movement quality and absence of pain increase
What structure absorbs shock and transmits load between vertebrae?
Intervertebral disc
Increased thoracic kyphosis often leads to compensatory what?
Increased cervical extension or FHP
Name a sign requiring modification or cessation of exercise.
Peripheralization, new numbness/weakness, dizziness, or red flags.
Which exercise improves thoracic extension?
Foam roller extension or seated thoracic extension
Name one precaution for spinal manipulation (PT‑performed).
Instability, fracture, osteoporotic risk, neurological deficits
Name the segmental deep stabilizer of the lumbar spine.
Multifidus
Which muscles tend to be inhibited with lower crossed syndrome?
Gluteus maximus & abdominals
What finding is consistent with instability?
Positive prone instability test
What is the progression sequence for stabilization?
Supported → Unsupported → Dynamic → Functional
What concept guides the PTA to avoid aggravating movements?
Directional preference
Which region has the least mobility due to rib articulation?
Thoracic spine
Why is posture considered both a structural and functional impairment?
It influences load, muscle length, joint alignment, and movement patterns.
What phase focuses on restoring functional movement patterns?
Return‑to‑Function phase
When are neural glides appropriate?
When symptoms are irritable but peripheralizing is avoided
Name two items PTAs must monitor during spine exercise progression.
Symptoms (centralization), vitals, posture, functional tolerance