Final answer:
Marta may benefit from cervical mobilization as part of her physical therapy plan to address foraminal narrowing at the C5-C6 intervertebral joint. This intervention aims to alleviate pressure on the nerves and improve neck function, typically starting with heat application and progressing to specific exercises and icing as needed.
Step-by-step explanation:
Marta, who exhibits chronic pain and tenderness at the base of her neck due to foraminal narrowing at the C5-C6 intervertebral joint, may benefit from a specific appropriate physical therapy plan targeted at relieving symptoms and improving function. Although applying an ice pack can be helpful for reducing inflammation and pain, and traction at the level of C7 can sometimes alleviate pressure, the most appropriate physical therapy intervention in her case, given the limited information, might be cervical mobilization.
Cervical mobilization involves gentle movements of the vertebrae, performed by a physical therapist, to help alleviate pressure on the nerves and improve range of motion. In the case of foraminal narrowing, it may be beneficial to mobilize the vertebrae in a way that opens the intervertebral space, possibly including techniques such as moving the C5 vertebrae anteriorly.
The treatment plan would likely begin with the application of heat to draw blood to the area and enhance healing, followed by the introduction of specific exercises and possibly icing. Close collaboration with a PT is necessary to customize the therapy plan, monitor progress, and adjust treatment according to the patient's response.