Cervical Stairstep and Effects on Range of Motion (ROM)

The cervical spine can be affected in a number of ways due to its vulnerability to injury. These injuries can result from poor posture, sports or occupation and can lead to degenerative changes. Cervical range of motion (ROM) is also affected by these injuries. When active ROM is restricted, the injury is of muscular origin. Pain with passive ROM indicates ligamentous injury whereas restricted passive ROM indicates blockage within bone or soft tissue. The normal range of motion in the cervical spine is 80-90 degrees flexion, 70 degrees extension, 20-45 degrees lateral flexion and 90 degrees of rotation. A common mechanism of cervical spine injury is axial loading. Axial loading can create a buckling effect within the cervical spine and decrease its ability to move normally, creating a limited ROM.