Fryette Type I mechanics differentiate based on what movements?

Fryette Type I mechanics focus on the relationship between sidebending and rotation within a spinal segment. According to Fryette's principles, Type I mechanics involve neutral spinal segments where multiple vertebrae move as a unit. In this situation, when sidebending occurs to one side, rotation occurs in the opposite direction. This characteristic can be observed in a group of vertebrae that are not in an extreme position of flexion or extension, hence the term "neutral mechanics."

Understanding this principle is crucial in osteopathic structural practice, as it informs how spinal adjustments are made and how to treat certain conditions effectively. Recognizing the interplay of sidebending and opposite rotation in Type I mechanics helps practitioners diagnose and develop treatment plans that account for the body's natural compensatory patterns.