Lateral flexion

Definition

Lateral flexion is the movement of bending sideways at the waist or neck, where part of the body moves closer to the midline. It occurs primarily in the spine and is a common movement in activities that require side-to-side motion.

Related terms

Flexion:

The action of bending a joint or limb in the body by decreasing the angle between the bones comprising a joint.

Extension:

An anatomical movement that increases the angle between parts at a joint, essentially straightening it from a bent position.

Spinal Column: The part of the skeletal system consisting of vertebrae stacked on top of each other, providing structural support and flexibility for the body