Spinal extension is described as what?

• A. Spinal rotation
• B. Looks like standing straight up from a rounded back
• C. Spinal extension
• D. Lateral flexion

Answer: (B)

Spinal extension is the movement that straightens a rounded or flexed spine, moving you toward an upright posture. Imagine going from a hunched, rounded back to standing tall—the chest lifts, the shoulders align over the hips, and the spine extends backward. That visual matches the description of “looks like standing straight up from a rounded back.” It’s the opposite of flexion (rounding forward) and is distinct from twisting (rotation) or bending to the side (lateral flexion).