Lower Cervical Flexion with Upper Cervical Stabilization

Professional Rationale
A neuromuscular re-education exercise for the cervical stabilizers. Can also be helpful when the CT junction is hypomobile as it helps to engage the lower cervical segments.

Client Rationale
The deep stabilizers of the neck often become weak and inhibited with postural muscle imbalances and injury. This exercise teaches your body how to move the lower part of the neck while stabilizing the upper part. It helps to teach the muscles to move the segments of the neck separately while still stabilizing the head and neck.



Instructions

• Lean shoulder blades and head onto the board.
• Place your middle finger on the base of your skull and your index finger on your C2.
• Tilt your head forward moving only where the neck meets the thoracic spine.
• Your fingers should not move during this entire exercise.
• Return to the start position.
• Lean a board (eg, ironing board) against a wall about 30 degrees.
• Do not feel any pain.
• Do not allow the upper neck to move.

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