Fryette's Principles are specifically applicable to which parts of the spine?

Fryette's Principles are foundational concepts in osteopathic medicine that describe the mechanics of vertebral motion and are primarily applicable to the thoracic and lumbar regions of the spine. The first principle states that when the spine is in a neutral position, side bending occurs opposite to the rotation. The second principle addresses situations where the spine is flexed or extended; in such cases, side bending and rotation occur to the same side.

The thoracic and lumbar spine regions demonstrate these principles effectively due to their structural and functional relationships. The lumbar region allows significant flexion and extension, making the application of these principles relevant for understanding motion and dysfunction in this area. Similarly, the thoracic spine, which encompasses rib attachments and has a unique structure, also exhibits the mechanics described by Fryette's Principles.

In contrast, the cervical and sacral regions do not adhere strictly to these principles due to their different anatomical characteristics and motion patterns. The cervical spine has a more complex motion due to its range of motion and joint articulation, while the sacral region primarily functions in a different mechanical capacity, particularly in relation to its role in the pelvis.

By focusing on the thoracic and lumbar spine, Fryette's Principles provide osteopathic practitioners with important guidelines for assessment and treatment