Movements in the lumbar spine during exercises of the upper extremities. A roentgenologic study in para- and tetraplegic patients.

Strengthening exercises during treatment of patients with unstable lumbar fractures produce a kyphotic or lordotic sagittal movement in the lumbar spine. These movements have been measured roentgenologically. Forward flexion exercises in the shoulder joints to 45 degrees produced a kyphotic movement, while forward flexion to 110 degrees and abduction exercises to 90 degrees produced a lordotic movement. Flexion of hips and knees to 45 degrees produced a kyphotic movement adding to the movements caused by the shoulder exercises. Increasing the load on the upper extremities produced an increase of all movements.