Prepare for your Movement Science Midterm Test with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Boost your exam readiness!

Multiple Choice

Which ligament limits contralateral lateral flexion?

Contralateral lateral flexion is mainly restrained by the intertransverse ligaments, which span between adjacent transverse processes. When the spine side-bends to one side, the ligaments on the opposite side become taut and limit further bending in that direction. This lateral-stabilizing role is what makes them the most relevant restraint for contralateral lateral flexion. The other ligaments have different primary roles—interspinous ligaments limit flexion between spinous processes, ligamentum flavum also contributes to limiting flexion and aiding extension, and the posterior longitudinal ligament runs along the back of the vertebral bodies to limit flexion—so none address contralateral lateral flexion as specifically.

Contralateral lateral flexion is mainly restrained by the intertransverse ligaments, which span between adjacent transverse processes. When the spine side-bends to one side, the ligaments on the opposite side become taut and limit further bending in that direction. This lateral-stabilizing role is what makes them the most relevant restraint for contralateral lateral flexion. The other ligaments have different primary roles—interspinous ligaments limit flexion between spinous processes, ligamentum flavum also contributes to limiting flexion and aiding extension, and the posterior longitudinal ligament runs along the back of the vertebral bodies to limit flexion—so none address contralateral lateral flexion as specifically.