Spinal rotation (left and right) takes place around which axis?

The spinal rotation occurs around the y-axis, which is an important aspect of biomechanics. In a three-dimensional coordinate system, the y-axis runs vertically, and when the spine rotates, it pivots around this axis. This type of motion is commonly seen in activities that involve twisting the torso, such as turning to look over one's shoulder or during certain athletic movements.

Understanding the direction of spinal rotation is crucial for various applications, including rehabilitation, physical therapy, and sports science. It helps in developing effective strategies to enhance performance or prevent injuries by ensuring that the biomechanics involved in spinal movements are handled correctly.

In contrast, the x-axis typically corresponds to flexion and extension movements (like bending forward or backward), while the z-axis relates to lateral flexion (side bending). The r-axis is not a standard reference in biomechanical analysis and thus does not apply in this context.