Physical examination maneuver

Physical Exam

Thoracolumbar Active Range of Motion

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Video coming September 2026

How to Perform

Ask the standing patient to move the thoracolumbar spine actively through its ranges while you observe and compare sides: forward flexion (bend toward the toes), extension (lean back), lateral flexion (slide each hand down the side of the leg), and rotation (turn the shoulders with the pelvis stabilized). Note the range and smoothness of motion, the rhythm of the spinal segments, and any pain or restriction.

How to Interpret

Showing all 1 finding

Ankylosing Spondylitis

Reduced thoracolumbar spinal mobility — limited forward flexion (a modified Schober increase under about 5 cm) and/or reduced side-to-side (lateral) flexion
Rule in
Somewhat helpful
Rule out
Minimally helpful
Evidence:Limited

References

  • Gran JT. An epidemiological survey of the signs and symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis. Clin Rheumatol. 1985;4(2):161-169. doi:10.1007/BF02032287. PMID 3159533.
  • Bickley LS, Szilagyi PG, Hoffman RM, Soriano RP. Bates' Guide to Physical Examination and History Taking. 13th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Wolters Kluwer; 2021.
  • Swartz MH. Textbook of Physical Diagnosis: History and Examination. 9th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2025.

Related Diagnoses

Ankylosing Spondylitis

Related Systems / Regions

MusculoskeletalThorax

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