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Thoracic segmental flexion during cervical forward bending.

I M Fiebert1, T Spyropoulos1, D Peterman2

  • 1University of Miami School of Medicine,Coral Gables, FL.

Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation
|February 28, 2014
PubMed
Summary

Cervical forward bending causes upper thoracic spine flexion, particularly at segments T2 and T3. This study quanties thoracic segmental mobility during cervical motion, aiding physical therapists in patient evaluation and treatment.

Keywords:
Cervical dysfunctioncervical forward bendingthoracic segmental flexion

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Area of Science:

  • Biomechanical analysis of spinal segmental motion.
  • Kinesiology and human movement studies.

Background:

  • Physical therapists routinely assess spinal segmental mobility during cervical dysfunction evaluation.
  • The role of thoracic segmental mobility in cervical range of motion remains unclear.
  • Previous research on spinal segmental mobility often uses cadavers or radiographic methods, limiting clinical applicability.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To quantify the amount of thoracic segmental flexion associated with cervical forward bending.
  • To investigate the relationship between cervical motion and thoracic spine mobility.

Main Methods:

  • Twenty-four healthy adults (ages 21-29) participated.
  • Thoracic spinal segmental mobility was measured using the Faro Metrecom Skeletal Analysis System in neutral and forward-bent cervical positions.
  • Intrarater and interrater reliability were analyzed for thoracic segments in the neutral position.

Main Results:

  • Cervical flexion resulted in measurable thoracic segmental flexion.
  • Segments T1-T4 exhibited forward bending ranging from 2.88° to 4.42°, with maximal flexion at T2 (4.42°) and T3 (4.19°).
  • No consistent pattern of flexion was observed below T4.

Conclusions:

  • Upper-thoracic segmental flexion occurs during cervical forward bending.
  • Findings provide quantitative data on thoracic mobility during cervical motion, relevant for clinical practice.