Which two tests are used to assess lumbar stability or movement control?

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Lumbar stability and movement control come from the core muscles bracing the spine during loading and movement. The prone instability test challenges this control by having the patient lie face down and activate the core (often with the legs in a position that requires abdominal engagement). If pain appears with loading but then diminishes when the legs are raised and the abdominal muscles are engaged, it indicates instability that the stabilizing muscles can compensate for when properly activated. The curl-up (core endurance) test measures how long the trunk flexors can maintain a controlled, neutral spine during a curl-up. Good endurance suggests the abdominal stabilizers can continuously support the lumbar spine during bending tasks; poor endurance points to inadequate movement control and a higher risk of instability during daily activities.

These two tests together directly assess the functional capacity of the lumbar stabilization system. They’re distinct from other tests that probe neural tension (slump, straight leg raise) or facet/joint irritation (Kemp’s, quadrant) or general hypermobility (Beighton), which don’t specifically measure movement control of the lumbar spine.