(4.1) Clinical Examination of the Cervical Spine Flashcards
1
Q
What is involved in the clinical examination?
A
- Observation
- AROM
- Isometric resisted
- Neuro exam
- Palpation
- Special tests
2
Q
What is looked for during observation?
A
- Antalgic
- Asymmetry
- Deformities
- Muscle Bulk
- Posture
3
Q
What is involved in AROM testing?
A
- Flexion: chin to chest
- Extension: nose to ceiling
- Left + right rotation: chin parallel shoulder
- Left + right lateral flexion
4
Q
What is tested isometrically?
A
- Flexion
- Extension
- L/R side Flexion
- L/R Rotation
5
Q
What reflexes are tested?
A
- Biceps Jerk C6
- Triceps Jerk C7
6
Q
What bony landmarks should be palpated?
A
- Occipital protuberance
- Spinous process C2
- C3 (difficult)
- C7 prominent
- Differentiate b/t C6 & C7 (C6 disappears during extension)
7
Q
What adverse neural dynamics (AND) should be performed?
A
- Brachial plexus tension test
- Sensitivity and mobility of cervical nerve roots
- ‘SLR of UL’
8
Q
What special tests can be performed?
A
- Cervical distraction test
- Neck flexor endurance test
- Cervical extensor endurance test
