Which statement about lumbar ROM is true?

• A. Flexion (60-80°) is greater than extension (25-35°).
• B. Extension is greater than flexion.
• C. Both flexion and extension are 40-60°.
• D. Both flexion and extension are 25-35°.

Answer: (A)

Lumbar flexion has a larger range of motion than lumbar extension. In practice, the lumbar spine often allows about 60–80 degrees of flexion, while extension is typically only about 25–35 degrees. This greater forward-bending ROM reflects the anatomy and biomechanics of the lumbar region, including facet joint orientation and ligamentous restraints that limit backward bending more than forward bending. So the statement describing flexion as greater than extension matches the common ROM pattern. The other options would imply either equal or higher extension than flexion or place both movements in ranges that don’t align with typical lumbar measurements, which is not how the lumbar spine usually behaves.