A Comparison of Spine-Board Transfer Techniques and the Effect of Training on Performance

OBJECTIVE: To compare the log-roll (LR) maneuver and the lift-and-slide (LS) technique and to investigate the effect of training on the performance of these transfer techniques. DESIGN AND SETTING: A repeated-measures design involving certified athletic trainers and athletic training students from a National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I college. SUBJECTS: Certified athletic trainers and athletic training students were required to transfer healthy individuals onto a spine board. Testing was performed on 2 men of average size, whereas training sessions were performed on both men and women of different heights and weights. RESULTS: Differences between transfer techniques were noted. The execution of the LR produced significantly greater lateral-flexion motion and greater axial rotation of the head as compared with the LS. Performance of spine-board transfer techniques did not improve with training. CONCLUSIONS: The LS technique was more effective in restricting motion of the head. To truly establish the safety of spine-board transfer techniques, researchers need to assess how individual segments move within the structurally unstable cervical spine.