Which spinal movements are most likely utilized in everyday activities?

Flexion and extension are fundamental movements that the spine undergoes frequently during daily activities. Flexion refers to bending the spine forward, which occurs when you perform tasks like picking something up from the floor or sitting down. Extension, on the other hand, involves straightening the spine or bending it backward, which is common when standing up straight or when reaching overhead.

These movements are essential for functional activities such as walking, bending, lifting, and sitting. They allow the spine to adapt to different positions and stresses, contributing to overall flexibility and mobility. As you engage in everyday tasks, these motions are often repeated and play a key role in maintaining functional movement patterns.

In contrast, while other movements listed—such as rotation, abduction, adduction, compression, and distraction—also occur in varying degrees, they are not as consistently utilized across a wide range of typical daily activities. Flexion and extension encompass a broader scope of actions that people engage in regularly, making them the correct choice for this question.