Lateral Flexion

Lateral Flexion: A frontal plane joint action of the spine that results in a decrease in the angle between two bones. Bending to the side.

• Opposing Joint Action: Opposing actions are referred to as "ipsilateral flexion (to the same side)" and "contralateral flexion (to the opposite side)." Note that there is no such thing as "lateral extension."
• Plane of Motion: Frontal plane
• Direction Bias: Side-bending
• Note: Joint actions may be referred to as "osteokinematic motions" or "osteokinematic joint actions" to differentiate them from "arthrokinematic motions " (e.g., spin, glide, roll, compression, and distraction).

For more (including a video lecture), check out:

• Lesson 18: The Spine and Trunk Muscles

Joints that Perform Lateral Flexion (and Sample Exercises):

• Spine (Intervertebral joints) : Lateral flexion occurs when the spine bends sideways, as observed during side-bends.