Orthopedics 207: Finger to Floor & Sit-n-Reach | Chiropractic CE

Spinal flexibility testing is a foundational clinical tool in chiropractic practice, used to quantify range of motion and guide rehabilitation. This 2-hour CE course delivers an evidence-informed review of the Finger to Floor and Sit-N-Reach assessments and their application in patient care.

What You Will Learn

• Discuss clinical utilization and limitations of the Sit-N-Reach test
• Outline Finger to Floor pros, cons, and current normative benchmarks
• Review axial versus appendicular flexibility considerations
• Summarize updated evidence-based perspectives on stretching

Course Overview

The Sit-N-Reach and Finger to Floor tests are among the most widely used flexibility metrics across the lifespan, yet their proper interpretation is frequently misunderstood. This course explores the evidence behind each test, including separate normative benchmark ranges for males and females by age group, and explains the critical distinction between axial and appendicular flexibility — helping clinicians avoid common misinterpretations and design more targeted treatment strategies.

The course concludes with a contemporary review of stretching science. Long-held beliefs about static stretching and injury prevention have been substantially revised. Dr. Hall presents updated clinical perspectives to help practitioners counsel patients on home exercise programs and long-term flexibility maintenance in evidence-informed chiropractic care.

Course Outline

1. Spine flexibility — luxury or necessity?
2. Sit-N-Reach — pros/cons and benchmarks for males and females
3. Finger to Floor — new thoughts and benchmarks
4. Axial vs. appendicular flexibility considerations
5. Updated perspectives on stretching

About the Instructor

Dr. Michael Hall, DC, FIACN, earned his Doctor of Chiropractic degree with honors from Parker College of Chiropractic (1990) and his Diplomate from the American Board of Chiropractic Neurology (1993). As Founder of BrainDC.org and Lead Neurology and Orthopedics Faculty at CCEDseminars, he brings over 30 years of clinical expertise to each course. Learn more on the Faculty page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the Finger to Floor and Sit-N-Reach tests?

The Finger to Floor test assesses total spinal and lower extremity flexibility in a standing position, while the Sit-N-Reach is a seated test that primarily captures hamstring and lumbar flexibility. This course reviews the pros, cons, and normative benchmarks for both tests.

Is Orthopedics 207 approved for chiropractic CE credit in my state?

Orthopedics 207 is PACE approved and accepted by most U.S. state chiropractic licensing boards. Confirm current requirements with your state board or review the CCEDseminars state CE guidelines before enrolling.

How long do I have to complete the course after enrolling?

Orthopedics 207 is fully self-paced with no live session requirements. Complete the 2 CE credit hours and the course exam on your own schedule.

Certification & Programs

Orthopedics 207 may count toward CCEDseminars specialty certification tracks — explore available Certification Programs to see how this course fits into your professional development pathway.

State CE Requirements

Review the Online Chiropractic Course Guidelines to confirm this course satisfies your state board's continuing education standards before enrolling.

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References

1. Minkler S, Patterson P. The validity of the modified sit-and-reach test in college-age students. Res Q Exerc Sport. 1994;65(2):189–192. doi:10.1080/02701367.1994.10607614
2. Perret C, Poiraudeau S, Fermanian J, Colau MM, Benhamou MA, Revel M. Validity, reliability, and responsiveness of the fingertip-to-floor test. Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2001;82(11):1566–1570. doi:10.1053/apmr.2001.24134
3. Behm DG, Blazevich AJ, Kay AD, McHugh M. Acute effects of muscle stretching on physical performance, range of motion, and injury incidence in healthy active individuals: a systematic review. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab. 2016;41(1):1–11. doi:10.1139/apnm-2015-0235
4. Mayorga-Vega D, Merino-Marban R, Viciana J. Criterion-related validity of sit-and-reach tests for estimating hamstring and lumbar extensibility: a meta-analysis. J Sports Sci Med. 2014;13(1):1–14. PMID:24570594