Upper Cervical Extension with Middle 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 upper part of the neck while stabilizing the lower part. It helps to teach the muscles to move the segments of the neck separately while still stabilizing the head and neck.



Instructions

• Keep your shoulders relaxed.
• Place your middle finger at the base of your skull where it meets your neck and your index finger on the base of your neck where it meets your thoracic spine.
• Sit in a chair with good posture and let your chin drop towards the throat.
• Slowly lift your chin upwards moving only at the base of your skull.
• Return to the start position.
• Your middle finger should move backwards.
• Do not experience any pain.
• Do not allow your index finger to move.

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