What occurs to intervertebral foramina during flexion?

During flexion of the spine, the intervertebral foramina increase in size. This occurs because flexion leads to anterior vertebral body movement and an increase in the distance between adjacent vertebrae. As the vertebrae move closer together at the posterior, the foramina created for the passage of spinal nerves and blood vessels expand in size, allowing more space for these structures.

Increased foraminal space during flexion can be important for alleviating pressure on nerve roots and reducing pain associated with conditions such as herniated discs or spinal stenosis. Understanding this relationship between spinal motion and foraminal size is crucial for physical therapist assistants when evaluating and treating patients with back pain or nerve issues related to the spine.