What is the normal cervical extension ROM?

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Multiple Choice

What is the normal cervical extension ROM?

Explanation:
Normal cervical extension ROM is how far you can tilt the head backward from a neutral position. In healthy adults, this extension typically reaches about 75 degrees. This reflects the cervical spine’s structure and the strength and flexibility of the posterior neck muscles and facet joints, which allow more backward movement than forward flexion. When measuring, you’d usually use a goniometer or inclinometer with the patient in a comfortable seated or standing position; the setup uses a fixed reference and follows the head as it moves into extension. If someone doesn’t reach roughly 75 degrees, it may indicate tight posterior neck tissues, joint stiffness, or pain guarding limiting the movement.

Normal cervical extension ROM is how far you can tilt the head backward from a neutral position. In healthy adults, this extension typically reaches about 75 degrees. This reflects the cervical spine’s structure and the strength and flexibility of the posterior neck muscles and facet joints, which allow more backward movement than forward flexion.

When measuring, you’d usually use a goniometer or inclinometer with the patient in a comfortable seated or standing position; the setup uses a fixed reference and follows the head as it moves into extension. If someone doesn’t reach roughly 75 degrees, it may indicate tight posterior neck tissues, joint stiffness, or pain guarding limiting the movement.

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