Patients with what symptoms are not suitable for cervical manipulation?

Patients with what symptoms are not suitable for cervical manipulation?

• A. Radicular symptoms extending to the mid-forearm
• B. Severe spondylosis without radicular symptoms
• C. Acute muscle spasm
• D. Minor neck strain

Answer: (A)

Patients presenting with radicular symptoms extending to the mid-forearm are indicative of potential nerve root involvement or compression in the cervical spine. This may suggest a more serious underlying condition, such as a herniated disc, cervical radiculopathy, or other neurologic disorders that could be exacerbated by cervical manipulation. Manipulating the cervical spine in the presence of these symptoms could risk worsening the patient's condition or lead to further neurologic impairment. On the other hand, severe spondylosis without radicular symptoms may allow for manipulation in certain cases, depending on the extent of degeneration and associated pain. Acute muscle spasm, while potentially causing discomfort, might not necessarily contraindicate manipulation as skilled practitioners can use specific techniques to address muscle tightness. Minor neck strain typically does not contraindicate manipulation since it often responds well to such treatment, targeting pain relief and improved mobility.

Patients presenting with radicular symptoms extending to the mid-forearm are indicative of potential nerve root involvement or compression in the cervical spine. This may suggest a more serious underlying condition, such as a herniated disc, cervical radiculopathy, or other neurologic disorders that could be exacerbated by cervical manipulation. Manipulating the cervical spine in the presence of these symptoms could risk worsening the patient's condition or lead to further neurologic impairment.

On the other hand, severe spondylosis without radicular symptoms may allow for manipulation in certain cases, depending on the extent of degeneration and associated pain. Acute muscle spasm, while potentially causing discomfort, might not necessarily contraindicate manipulation as skilled practitioners can use specific techniques to address muscle tightness. Minor neck strain typically does not contraindicate manipulation since it often responds well to such treatment, targeting pain relief and improved mobility.