Which statement is true regarding the osteoporosis contraindicated list?

Which statement is true regarding the osteoporosis contraindicated list?

• A. Swan Dive
• B. Short Box Abdominals
• C. Ladder Barrel Stretches
• D. Side Sit Up

Answer: (A)

Extreme spinal extension with load is a red flag for osteoporosis. The contraindicated list targets movements that put the spine into end-range extension and transfer significant force through the vertebrae, since weakened bones are prone to fractures. Swan Dive is a back-extension exercise performed with a deep arch of the thoracic and lumbar spine and weight-bearing through the arms and torso. That combination creates a high spinal load in a vulnerable area, which is why it sits on the osteoporosis contraindicated list. The other options involve movements that can be approached within safer ranges or modified to maintain a more neutral spine, so they aren’t singled out as contraindicated in the standard list. Focus in practice on controlled, neutral-spine movements and avoid end-range extension when osteoporosis is present.

Extreme spinal extension with load is a red flag for osteoporosis. The contraindicated list targets movements that put the spine into end-range extension and transfer significant force through the vertebrae, since weakened bones are prone to fractures.

Swan Dive is a back-extension exercise performed with a deep arch of the thoracic and lumbar spine and weight-bearing through the arms and torso. That combination creates a high spinal load in a vulnerable area, which is why it sits on the osteoporosis contraindicated list.

The other options involve movements that can be approached within safer ranges or modified to maintain a more neutral spine, so they aren’t singled out as contraindicated in the standard list. Focus in practice on controlled, neutral-spine movements and avoid end-range extension when osteoporosis is present.