Upper levels of the thoracic spine have what motion characteristics?

• A. There is no rotation in thoracic spine
• B. Lower levels allow greater lateral flexion and rotation
• C. Upper levels allow greater lateral flexion and rotation; flexion and extension are fairly limited
• D. Upper levels allow less lateral flexion and rotation; flexion is unlimited

Answer: (C)

The thoracic spine is limited in forward and backward bending by the rib cage and the way the facet joints contact each other. Because of this, flexion and extension are fairly restricted across the thoracic region. The joints are aligned in a way that still allows twisting and side bending, especially in the upper part of the thoracic spine. So the upper levels tend to permit more rotation and lateral flexion, while flexion and extension remain limited.