Journal of manipulative and physiological therapeutics
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J Manipulative Physiol Ther · Nov 1999
Case ReportsCervical flexion: a study of dynamic surface electromyography and range of motion.
In the comprehensive assessment of painful conditions, dynamic surface electromyography (sEMG) and range of motion (ROM) recordings can provide information regarding muscle spasm, antalgic postures, fear of pain (protective guarding), muscle injury, and disordered movement caused by pain. This study examines ROM and sEMG patterns observed during cervical flexion. ⋯ The results of the study indicate 2 distinct movement patterns associated with upper versus lower cervical flexion and 2 distinct sEMG recruitment patterns. The study suggests that these 2 distinct movements involve 2 distinct cervical segments and are associated with recruitment of different muscle groups. Applied clinical research on the cervical spine should use sEMG recordings to assess both the upper and lower flexion movements as the standard for the study of cervical flexion.