Common injuries of the spine

Question 1

Sternocleidomastoid action

Answer 1

On one side:
- Lateral flexion with rotation of head to opposite side
Both sides:
- Flexes head and neck

Question 2

Splenius cervicis action

Answer 2

On one side:
- Turn head to same side
Both sides:
- Extends head and neck

Question 3

Platysma actions

Answer 3

• Pulls lower lip inferiorly
• Tenses skin of neck

Question 4

Breathing

Answer 4

• Breathing with normal mechanics has a potent role in the neuromuscular system
• Respiratory muscles are important for posture and spinal stabilisation

Question 5

Respiratory muscles

Answer 5

• Diaphragm
• Intercostals
• Scalenes
• Transverse abdominis
• Muscles of the pelvic floor

Question 6

Transverse abdominis

Answer 6

• Primary trunk stabiliser via intra abdominal pressure
• Thoracolumbar fascia and SIJ compression