section name header

Table 10-1

Thoracic and Thoracolumbar Spine Stability Scale

ElementPoint Value
Anterior elements unable to function2
Posterior elements unable to function2
Disruptions of costovertebral articulations1
Radiographic criteria
  • Sagittal displacement >2.5 mm (2 points)
  • Relative sagittal plane angulation >5 degrees (2 points)
4
Spinal cord or cauda equina damage2
Dangerous loading anticipated1

NOTE: Instability: total of≥5 points.

Adapted from WhiteA, PunjabiM. Clinical Biomechanics of the Spine. Philadelphia: JB Lippincott; 1990:335.