Answer:
Step-by-step explanation:
Final answer:
To assess cervical lateral flexion, the client should be asked to tilt their head to the side, either right or left, engaging the sternocleidomastoid muscle. This action is distinct from rotation, which involves turning the head around the axis of the spine facilitated by the C2 vertebra. Identifying weakness during these movements can indicate nerve damage or muscle issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
To assess cervical lateral flexion, instructing a client to tilt the head to the right or tilt the head to the left is appropriate. These actions involve the unilateral contraction of the neck muscles, particularly the sternocleidomastoid, which enables the head to bend towards the respective shoulder. This type of movement is crucial for testing muscle function and identifying potential muscle weakness or nerve damage.
Lateral flexion is a movement that bends the neck toward one side, engaging the muscle on that side. When both sides work together, they act as flexors of the head. The C2 vertebra, also known as the axis, facilitates the rotation of the head, which is different from lateral flexion. Deficits in the muscles responsible for these movements could suggest problems with the spinal nerves, such as those associated with the accessory nerve, which have an impact on orienting the head or maintaining posture.
The primary muscles responsible for this movement are the sternocleidomastoid muscles, located on both sides of the neck. When these muscles contract unilaterally, they cause rotation of the head. When they contract bilaterally, they cause flexion or extension of the head.Testing the strength of these muscles can be done by asking the patient to flex and extend the neck or perform lateral flexion of the neck toward the shoulder. Any difference in strength between sides may indicate damage or weakness on one side.