Therapy Cervical Spine C3-C5 Lateral Flexion

By conducting careful palpation on the side of the neck, one can locate the processi transversus of C3, C4, and C5. During lateral flexion, it is essential to consider the anatomical presence of the unco-vertebral joints. Making a shift is crucial to achieve a precise, physiological lateral flexion. This involves applying compression on one side and traction on the other side while simultaneously making a shift.

Have the person sit upright in a relaxed posture. Palpate with the thumb towards the spinous process of C2 and locate from there the spinous process of C3 and the transverse process of C3. Place the thumb on the process transversus of C3 and the fingers of the same hand on the contralateral side on the processus transversus of C4. Approach the patient with the sternum (xiphoid process/incinatum) and position it against the lateral side of the head.

The other hand approaches the transverse process of C3 from the cranial side. Perform a shift using the thumb and applying compression to the ipsilateral side of the head. Simultaneously, apply a force in the cranial direction to the transverse process of C3 on the contralateral side and a force in the caudal direction to the transverse process of C4.

This results in a shift and roll of the cranial vertebra relative to the underlying vertebra. This takes into account the form and function of the uncovertebral joints, allowing for a physiological execution of lateral flexion. Repeat these manual techniques for C4-C5.