Fysioterapeuten (Dec 2005)
Testing og trening av dype nakkefleksorer
Abstract
Research has shown reduced activity in the deep cervical flexors in patients with neck pain and cervicogen headache. The muscles Longus colli and Longus capitis, are the most important deep flexors in the neck. An indirect test, the cranio- cervical flexion (CCF) test, has been developed to assess these muscles. The CCF test assess the individuals ability to perform an accurate flexion movement in the upper part of the neck, without voluntary flexion of the middle or the lower part of the cervical column. An inflatable air-filled pressure sensor is placed suboccipitally to monitor the flattening of the cervical lordosis. Recent research using a specially developed electromyography, have confirmed that the CCF test is an adequate indirect measure of the activation of the deep neck flexors. The training program emphasises specific exercises including re- educating the neuromuscular control and stimulating the interaction between the deep and superficial muscles in the neck. The aim is to facilitate a coordinated movement pattern which integrates work and daily activities.
