Presentation
Anterior-Posterior Palpation of the Cervical Spine, an Anatomic Study
American Academy of Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapists (AAOMPT)
(2008)
Abstract
Many manual therapists use anterior-posterior palpation of the cervical spine. Other than stating that the pressure should be directed at the anterior tubercles, previous authors did not quantify how to palpate to avoid performing a carotid sinus massage instead. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to investigate the anatomical landmark of the carotid sinus and common carotid artery so as to avoid it when performing anterior-posterior palpation of the middle to lower cervical anterior tubercle. Subjects: 4 embalmed cadavers (2 males and 2 females; mean age of 78, range 65 to 92). Methods: 8 carotid arteries were dissected. Measurements were taken using a Venier caliper. Analyses: Descriptive mean distance from midline to medial carotid artery system (common carotid or carotid sinus) was used to quantify the location of the carotid sinus and common carotid artery at the hyoid and thyroid/cricoid cartilage levels respectively.
Disciplines
Publication Date
November 2, 2008
Citation Information
Yung, E. (2008). Anterior-Posterior Palpation of the Cervical Spine, an Anatomic Study. Lecture presented at American Academy of Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapists (AAOMPT), Seattle, WA.