In the Cervical rotation-lateral flexion test, a positive result indicates decreased motion on which side when the first rib is elevated?

In the Cervical rotation-lateral flexion test, a positive result indicates decreased motion on which side when the first rib is elevated?

• A. Left side
• B. Right side
• C. Both sides
• D. No change in motion

Answer: (A)

The Cervical rotation-lateral flexion test is designed to assess the motion of the cervical spine and its relationship with the first rib. When the first rib is elevated, it can restrict the movement of the cervical spine on the side opposite to where the rib is elevated. In this scenario, if the first rib on the right side is elevated, it can lead to decreased motion particularly on the left side during the lateral flexion portion of the test. This occurs because the elevated position of the first rib on one side creates a mechanical restriction that limits the ability of the cervical spine to laterally flex toward that same side. Consequently, if the first rib is elevated on the right, then motion will be decreased on the left side. Thus, a positive result in this test indicates decreased motion on the left side when the right first rib is elevated, which aligns with the original answer provided. Understanding this relationship is crucial for clinicians, as it helps in diagnosing and treating issues related to thoracic outlet syndrome and cervical spine dysfunctions. In considering the other options, they don't accurately reflect the mechanistic link between the position of the first rib and the resulting motion characteristics in the cervical spine.

The Cervical rotation-lateral flexion test is designed to assess the motion of the cervical spine and its relationship with the first rib. When the first rib is elevated, it can restrict the movement of the cervical spine on the side opposite to where the rib is elevated. In this scenario, if the first rib on the right side is elevated, it can lead to decreased motion particularly on the left side during the lateral flexion portion of the test.

This occurs because the elevated position of the first rib on one side creates a mechanical restriction that limits the ability of the cervical spine to laterally flex toward that same side. Consequently, if the first rib is elevated on the right, then motion will be decreased on the left side. Thus, a positive result in this test indicates decreased motion on the left side when the right first rib is elevated, which aligns with the original answer provided.

Understanding this relationship is crucial for clinicians, as it helps in diagnosing and treating issues related to thoracic outlet syndrome and cervical spine dysfunctions. In considering the other options, they don't accurately reflect the mechanistic link between the position of the first rib and the resulting motion characteristics in the cervical spine.