During palpation of the thoracic and lumbar spine, which finding is commonly observed?

• A. Spasm & atrophy of paraspinal muscles
• B. Fusion of the spinous processes
• C. Peripheral pulses absent
• D. Prominent spinous process deformity

Answer: (A)

During palpation of the thoracic and lumbar spine, the most common finding is spasm and possible atrophy of the paraspinal muscles. The paraspinal muscles (like the multifidus and erector spinae) lie on either side of the spine and often become tight and tender in response to strain or facet irritation. This guarding sensation is a typical sign of acute or subacute back pain. In longer-standing problems, disuse can lead to measurable atrophy, with reduced muscle bulk on the affected side or overall.

Other options aren’t typical findings from palpation. Fusion of the spinous processes is a radiographic/advanced degenerative change rather than something you feel as a normal palpation finding. Absence of peripheral pulses isn’t related to palpating the spine. A prominent spinous process deformity would suggest a significant structural abnormality or deformity, which isn’t the everyday palpation finding in a routine spine exam.