What is the definition of spine hyperextension?

Spine hyperextension refers to the movement of bending the spine backwards past its normal range of motion. This motion can put excessive stress on the spinal structures, potentially leading to injury if performed incorrectly or excessively. The definition highlights the importance of understanding the limits of spinal mobility, emphasizing that any movement beyond the safe anatomical limits can lead to strain and injury.

While bending backwards from the waist is related, it does not capture the critical aspect of exceeding those anatomical limits. Likewise, bending forwards from the waist and rotating the spine do not pertain to hyperextension but rather to flexion and rotation, respectively. Therefore, recognizing that hyperextension involves an excessive backward bend is essential for maintaining spinal health and preventing injuries during physical activities.