Active ROM
Ask the client to bring the chin toward the chest.
ROM Assessment Guide
Cervical ROM
Learn how to assess cervical movement using Active, Passive and Resisted ROM.
Movement Selector
Selected Movement
Flexion
Passive ROM
Support the head and gently move the cervical spine into flexion.
Resisted ROM
Client attempts cervical flexion while gentle resistance is applied against the forehead.
What to Observe
- Pain
- Range restriction
- Compensation
- Difference between sides
Assessment Flow
Assessment Flow
Observe→Active ROM→Passive ROM→Resisted ROM→Compare sides→Special Tests
Special Tests
Special Tests
Spurling’s Test
Use when cervical nerve root irritation is suspected.
Cervical Compression Test
Used to assess cervical compression symptoms and symptom provocation.
Cervical Distraction Test
Used to compare symptom response with cervical distraction.
Upper Cervical / Vertebral Artery Screening
Use appropriate cervical screening procedures according to training and scope of practice.
Quick Check
Quick Check
1. Which cervical movement brings the chin toward the chest?
2. Which cervical movement turns the head to look over the shoulder?
For educational revision only. ROM and orthopaedic test findings should be interpreted together with the client’s history, symptoms and other assessment findings.