Say it with us …
Flexion happens in the sagittal plane.
But, lateral flexion happens in the frontal plane.
Rotation happens in the transverse plane.
Extension happens in the…are we out of planes?
Yes, we are, but also no, we are not.
Extension happens in the sagittal plane, too! Does this mean thatare the same thing? Kinda!
Let’s look at this photo of a rainbow and its reflection.
(Photo by Paola Franco)
The rainbow itself is in flexion. The apex of its curve faces upwards. The reflection of the rainbow is in extension. The apex of its cure faces downwards. One rainbow, one plane of motion, two types of movement.
Why does this matter? Well, extension is tricky, triggering, and less available at the spine. But since it’s essentially the same shape as flexion, we can use flexion – which is usually friendly to find – to help us understand and master extension. Hence why Destinie taught flexion and is now teaching extension. Check out our class themes for this week.
Monday, January 23rd @ 12PM with Destinie
Today’s class will start with a short recap of finding flexion. Remember: flexion occurs when the angle between two joints decreases. Extension is the opposite; extension occurs when the angle between two joints increases. What’s interesting about these movements in the spine is that they partner each other on opposite sides on the vertebrae. When we flex the spine, the anterior (front-facing) joint angles between vertebrae decrease, but the posterior (back-facing) joint angles increase. If we can get familiar with what spinal flexion feels like, it’ll help us find healthy, decompressive spinal extension. Woo!
Monday, January 25th @ 8AM with Destinie
Last week, Destinie received requests for feet, hips, and neck! What a combo. Did anything last week spark your curiosity, leaving you wanting more? Let her know before class!
