Human Anatomy - Kotsan I. Ya. 2009

Anatomy of the Axial Skeleton
Spine Movements

Spinal movements can occur around three axes of rotation: the frontal axis (flexion and extension), the sagittal axis (lateral bending to the right and left), and the vertical axis (trunk rotation to the right and left). In addition, circular movements are possible, as well as some lengthening and shortening of the spine due to the accentuation or flattening of its curves during the contraction or relaxation of the respective musculature (springing movements).

The cervical and lumbar regions of THE Vertebral Column are the most mobile, while the upper and lower sections of the thoracic region are less mobile; the middle section, spanning approximately from the III to the VII thoracic vertebrae, exhibits very limited mobility. This is because the thoracic vertebrae articulate with the Ribs and participate in The formation of The thoracic cage. Furthermore, the spinous processes here are more rigidly connected to one another than in other PARTS OF THE vertebral column. The sacral region of the spine is virtually immobile.



Last update: 08/08/2026

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