Anatomy 101: the upper cervical spine

November 20, 2018 by Sian Smale

"The anatomy of the high cervical spine is unique and, to some degree, more complicated to assess than the rest of the vertebral column. The shape of the bones and their articulations are distinctly different between the occiput and atlas, atlas and axis, and axis and C3. Such a marked change in anatomy does not occur in such close proximity anywhere else in the vertebral column" (Edwards, 1992, pp. 42-43).

Due to the close proximity of this region of the spine, careful consideration must be made when understanding which level is being loaded under pressure, and what sensitising movements can be applied to differentiate between intra-articular and periarticular restrictions to movement. This blog explores the key features of clinical anatomy and offers tips for structural differentiation with palpation.

Cervical Radiculopathy or Infected Root Canal?

April 20, 2017 by Sian Smale

This is an interesting case example exploring the link between dental pain, TMJ pain and cervical pain. There are multiple pain mechanisms contributing to the overall presentation. It was definitely a complex case that required thinking outside the square in order to find the root of the problem.

Cervical Motor Control Part 4 - Rehabilitation Principles

October 04, 2016 by Sian Smale

The forth and final blog covers the rehabilitation principles for retraining cervical motor control. Aside from discussing the initial two phases of rehab (activation patterns & coordination) we also compare the final stages of training for an office working, painter and athlete based on their functional requirements.

Cervical Motor Control Part 3 - Does Posture Matter?

September 27, 2016 by Sian Smale

This week we continue to explore the research about motor control deficits in the cervical spine. Before discussing rehabilitation principles we are going to look at some new research about the role of sitting posture and how this impacts the action and load on muscles in the neck.

Cervical Motor Control Part 2 - Assessing More Than Deep Neck Flexors

September 19, 2016 by Sian Smale

Part 2 focusses on the range of clinical tests we have to measure both coordination and endurance of the deep cervical extensors and flexors. The aim of this blog is to expand our knowledge beyond the craniocervical flexion test and how they lead into rehabilitation principles.

Cervical Motor Control Part 1 - Clinical Anatomy of Cervical Spine

September 07, 2016 by Sian Smale

This is the first of a 4-part series discussing motor control deficits in the cervical spine. The focus is to broaden your knowledge about the deep stabilising muscles of the neck, how they are assessed and how to design rehabilitation programs beyond DNCF exercises. First up - a review of the clinical anatomy.