P-A Instability

Question 1

What is the purpose?

Answer 1

Testing for unstable lumbar segments due to pain.

Question 2

Proper instructions?

Answer 2

Patient rests prone thorax on table and raises legs, activating lumbar extensors. P-A pressure at each lumbar spinous process.

Question 3

Findings?

Answer 3

If pain at spinous, weak core stabilizers.

If pain lessens with muscle activation, it indicates benefit for core stabilization.

Question 4

Normal sequence of muscle contraction.

Answer 4

Hamstrings, glutes and paraspinal extensors.

Question 5

Facilitated muscles

Answer 5

We don’t know.

Question 6

Inhibited muscles

Answer 6

Lumbar extensors

Question 7

Beginner exercise

Answer 7

Bird-dog