Test: Supine Cervical Extension Test

Video Link

Background/Purpose

Procedure

The purpose of this test is to assess cervical spine extension in a non-weight bearing position. This test may be done in a supine or side lying position. Place the patient supine on the table with their arms at their side. The patient's shoulders should be on the edge of the table and their head should be off the end of the table and supported by the physician. The physician passively extends the patient's neck as far as possible. The goal is to reach 90 degrees of motion (head perpendicular to the ground). If the patient is able to achieve a full ROM it may indicate a postural pr motor control dysfunction with weight bearing. If the full ROM is not achieved it could indicate an anterior tissue restriction or joint restriction.
Performed: Bilaterally

Dialog

Patient is supine on table with arms at sides and head and neck off the end of the table. Patient's head and neck are passively placed into extension as far as possible.

Criteria

• Head/neck extend to about 90 degrees

Measurement

90.00 degrees

LOINC Code

0

Scale/Grading

Pass/Fail