Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine range of motion values of lumbar spine in Turkish people by using 3D motion analysis method.

Patients and Methods: The study included 100 subjects (50 males, 50 females; range 18 to 22 years). The Zebris® 3D Motion Analysis System was used for the measurement. Lateral bending, flexion, extension, pelvic tilt were evaluated in the measurements.

Results: The average value for total lateral flexion at lumbar spine was found to be 51.3°±7.5 in males and 52.7°±9.9 in females. Total flexion-extension was 81.0°±11.1 in males and 80.2°±10.2 in females. L4-L5 flexion, L5-S1 extension values were statistically high in women (p<0.05) while L3-L4 total flexion- extension and L1-L2 total lateral flexion values were statistically high in men (p<0.05). The support of pelvic tilt to total lumbosacral flexion was 46.6% in males and 42.1% in females. The support was 36.8% in males and 26.2% in females during extension. Flexion and extension of pelvic tilt values in men were found to be significantly higher than that in women (p<0.05).

Conclusion: The normal values of movements of lumbar spine in Turkish people have been determined with 3D motion analysis system