With some back conditions, specific positions can change the symptoms.
These positions are known as biases and they includeflexionand extension.
These biases are also called direction preferences.
Steve Prezant / Getty Images
A bias occurs due to the movement of tissue in the joint.
And defects in tissuessuch as bone spurs or out-of-place structureswill move slightly with position changes as well.
How Does Flexion Affect Back Pain?
Extension Bias
The opposite of flexion bias isextension bias.
This system is used in theMcKenzie methodand other physical therapy treatment methods.
Defects in movement, sensation, and reflexes are used to help identify the cause of back pain.
And diagnostic tests can visualize structural changes, such as a herniated disc or a compressed nerve.
And all of this is used to help design the best treatment plan for your back pain.
2011;4:393-402. doi:10.2147/JMDH.S24733.
2019;8:F1000 Faculty Rev-137.
doi:10.12688/f1000research.16082.1
Genevay S, Atlas SJ.Lumbar spinal stenosis.Best Pract Res Clin Rheumatol.
Philadelphia, PA. 2002.
