In Sahrmann test stage 2, what spinal alignment must be maintained?

In Sahrmann test stage 2, what spinal alignment must be maintained?

• A. Neutral spine.
• B. Flexed spine.
• C. Extended spine.
• D. Rotated spine.

Answer: (A)

Stage 2 focuses on controlled movement with the spine held in a neutral position. Keeping the lumbar spine neutral ensures the test targets how well the deep core stabilizers (like the transversus abdominis and multifidus) control the spine without compensations from bending or twisting. If the spine were flexed, extended, or rotated, different tissues and load patterns come into play, which would mask true stabilizer control and confound the assessment. Neutral alignment provides a stable baseline so the movement reflects proper muscle coordination rather than a change in spinal shape.

Stage 2 focuses on controlled movement with the spine held in a neutral position. Keeping the lumbar spine neutral ensures the test targets how well the deep core stabilizers (like the transversus abdominis and multifidus) control the spine without compensations from bending or twisting. If the spine were flexed, extended, or rotated, different tissues and load patterns come into play, which would mask true stabilizer control and confound the assessment. Neutral alignment provides a stable baseline so the movement reflects proper muscle coordination rather than a change in spinal shape.