Cervical Spine ROM & Measurements
What is the normal distance for cervical flexion?
Two fingers width between chin and chest.
What is the purpose of the Vertebral Artery Test?
To test for compression of the vertebral artery.
What muscles are tested in anterolateral neck flexion?
Sternocleidomastoid and scalene muscles.
What is a normal measurement for mouth depression (opening)?
25-35 mm.
What is an important consideration when performing cervical traction?
Always support the occipital bone and apply gradual pressure.
What landmarks are used for measuring cervical extension?
Sternal notch and chin (midline).
What are the signs of a positive Spurling’s Test?
Pain, numbness, or tingling down the arm (neurological symptoms).
How is posterolateral neck extension tested?
Prone, patient lifts head off table, turns head to one side, resistance applied downward.
What test is used to assess TMJ hypomobility?
The 3-Knuckle Test.
If a patient has TMJ hypomobility, what treatment might help?
Mobilization techniques and stretching.
During lateral flexion assessment, which landmarks are measured?
Mastoid process to acromion.
What is the purpose of the Distraction Test?
To test for cervical radicular syndrome by alleviating pain through traction.
How do you assess cervical lateral flexion strength?
Apply resistance to the side of the head while stabilizing the shoulder.
What is indicated by a C-curve deviation during jaw depression?
Capsular restriction or muscle imbalance.
What is the significance of segmental palpation in cervical spine assessments?
Helps assess mobility and identify dysfunction between vertebrae.
What are the three types of passive physiological intervertebral movements (PPIVMs) tested in supine?
Side glide, anterior glide, traction glide.
What movements are involved in the Vertebral Artery Test?
Extension, lateral flexion, and rotation to the opposite side.
How do you test cervical rotation strength?
Hand placed on side of face, patient resists rotation in the opposite direction.
What movements are included in TMJ AROM assessment?
Depression, occlusion, protrusion, retraction, lateral deviation.
Why should shoulder movement be ruled out when assessing cervical spine pain?
Pain from the cervical spine may be referred, and ruling out the shoulder helps ensure accurate diagnosis.
What is the proper positioning for gross PROM assessment of cervical flexion?
Patient in supine, head off table, fully supported, slow movement.
Why is the Distraction Test sometimes a false positive?
Stretching the foramen may feel like pain relief, even if it's not truly alleviating nerve compression.
What is the best patient position for MMT of the neck to minimize compensatory muscles?
Supine position.
How is TMJ lateral deviation measured?
Goniometer is placed horizontally along the bottom teeth to track movement.
When performing PAIVMs, where is pressure applied?
On the spinous processes or laminal groove in an anterior direction.