Diagnostics glossary

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Functional examination musculoskeletal system: Finger-floor distance

The mobility of the lumbar spine is evaluated with the finger-floor distance. Simultaneously the examiner looks for evidence of pain elicited during movement. For this the patient is asked to bend forward as much as possible while keeping the knees locked. In this bent position the finger distance to the floor is measured. This value provides clues about the spine mobility. Mobility during lateral and backward bending is assessed as well. He angle degrees are measured and assessed according to standard values.