In facet positional dysfunction, what determines the direction of motion restriction?

In facet positional dysfunction, what determines the direction of motion restriction?

• A. The position the facet is stuck in (flexion or extension)
• B. The patient's age
• C. The vertebral level of the facet
• D. The side of rotation

Answer: (A)

The key idea is that the direction of motion restriction follows the position the facet is locked in. A facet joint that’s entrapped in flexion can’t move further into flexion, so flexion is restricted while extension remains relatively freer. Conversely, if the joint is stuck in extension, extension is limited and flexion can be performed more freely. This locked position, not age, vertebral level, or which way the spine is rotated, determines whether flexion or extension is restricted.

The key idea is that the direction of motion restriction follows the position the facet is locked in. A facet joint that’s entrapped in flexion can’t move further into flexion, so flexion is restricted while extension remains relatively freer. Conversely, if the joint is stuck in extension, extension is limited and flexion can be performed more freely. This locked position, not age, vertebral level, or which way the spine is rotated, determines whether flexion or extension is restricted.