The Spine Extension Test measures how far the client can extend backwards through the spine and trunk. It is useful for tracking spinal mobility, comparing baseline and follow-up, and adding context to extension-based tasks.
A client may report stiffness when arching backwards, discomfort during overhead tasks, limited extension in running posture or difficulty with extension-based exercise. The Spine Extension Test provides a repeatable way to measure this movement.
The MAT article describes the client standing upright, with the Measurz inclinometer aligned at T12. The client extends backwards as far as they can while keeping the knees straight. Testing stops at maximal range or if pain/discomfort starts. The MAT article lists 20–40 degrees as a practical reference range.
Test name: Spine Extension Test
Purpose: Assess spinal/trunk extension ROM
What it assesses: Backward bending range
Equipment: Measurz inclinometer
Key finding: Extension angle in degrees
Best used with: Spine flexion, lateral flexion, rotation, hip extension, modified Thomas test and functional movement assessment
Key limitation: It measures ROM, not the cause of restriction or symptoms
The Spine Extension Test measures the client’s ability to extend the spine and trunk backwards in a standing position.
It is used to establish baseline extension ROM, track change and add context to tasks that require upright posture, overhead reach, running extension or back-bending movements.
It measures spine/trunk extension ROM in degrees. It does not isolate lumbar extension, identify a pain source, assess hip extension alone or diagnose a condition.
This is usually an active ROM test. The client extends backwards themselves. Record any support, assistance or modification.
Gym clients, athletes, runners, older adults, clients with extension mobility goals and anyone where spine ROM tracking is relevant.
Measurz inclinometer, flat standing space, Measurz app and notes for pain, symptoms, knee position and movement quality.
Ask the client to stand upright with feet in a consistent position. Align the inclinometer at T12. Ask the client to extend backwards as far as possible while keeping the knees straight. Stop at maximal ROM or if pain/discomfort begins. Save the result in Measurz.
Record the extension angle in degrees. The MAT article lists 20–40 degrees as a practical reference range, while noting that ROM varies between clients.
A lower score may reflect reduced extension ROM under this test method, but interpretation should include pain, fear, guarding, hip extension, thoracic movement and functional findings.
Evidence level: Level 2, related or closest available reference values.
Use 20–40 degrees as a practical MAT reference. Prioritise baseline and retest comparison using the same setup.
Spine ROM measurement with smartphone or inclinometer methods can be useful when standardised, but measurement properties vary by movement and body region. Recent spinal kinematic reviews support feasibility for several spinal movements while recommending cautious interpretation where validation is limited.
Common errors include bending the knees, hinging mainly from the hips, inconsistent T12 placement, pushing into pain and failing to record symptoms or apprehension.
Use this test to monitor extension ROM, track change after mobility or training work and add context to back-bending, running posture and overhead movement.
Record extension angle, pain score, symptom location, knee position, T12 placement, movement quality, stopping reason, baseline score and retest score.
Spine Flexion Test
Spine Lateral Flexion Test
Spine Rotation Test
Hip Extension Test
Hip Modified Thomas Test
Overhead Mobility Assessment
It measures backward bending ROM through the spine and trunk.
The MAT article lists 20–40 degrees as a practical reference range.
Yes. Record pain, location and stopping reason.
No. It is a movement finding and should be interpreted with broader assessment.
The Spine Extension Test measures backward bending ROM.
T12 placement and knee position must be consistent.
Pain and discomfort should be recorded.
Use reference values cautiously.
Track change in Measurz.
Cuesta-Vargas, A. I., Galán-Mercant, A., & Williams, J. M. (2020). Validity and reliability of smartphones in assessing spinal kinematics: A systematic review. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 43(6), 511–523.
Pourahmadi, M. R., et al. (2020). Psychometric properties of the iHandy Level smartphone application for measuring lumbar spine lordosis and range of motion: A systematic review. Journal of Sport Rehabilitation, 29(3), 352–359.
Fraeulin, L., et al. (2020). Intra- and inter-rater reliability of joint range of motion tests using tape measure, digital inclinometer and inertial motion capturing. PLOS ONE, 15(12), e0243646.
