Cervical Spine Biomechanics

Question 1

What levels is the occipital-atlanto region?

Answer 1

C0-C1

Question 2

What level is the atlanto-axial region?

Answer 2

C1-C2

Question 3

Why is the cervical spine the most mobile region?

Answer 3

To position the head for vision, hearing, smell, and equilibrium

Question 4

What is the normal posture of the cervical spine?

Answer 4

Normal lordosis (30-35° of extension)

Question 5

Where is the greatest motion and most common sites for DJD?

Answer 5

C4-5, C5-6, and C6-7

Question 6

What are the type 1 mechanics for coupled motions in cervical spine?

Answer 6

Rotation and sidebend occur in opposite directions (upper cervical)

Question 7

What are the type 2 mechanics for coupled motions in cervical spine?

Answer 7

Rotation and sidebend occur on the same side (lower cervical)

Question 8

What are the type 3 mechanics for coupled motions in cervical spine?

Answer 8

Motion in 1 plane reduces motion in all remaining planes

Question 9

What does the alar ligament help?

Answer 9

Stabilizes occiput-atlas with rotation

Question 10

What does the transverse ligament prevent?

Answer 10

Anterior translation of C1 on C2