College of Massage Therapists of British Columbia (CMTBC) Practice Exam

What pattern of movement is indicated by the CPR assessment for the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine?

1. Extension > Lateral Flexion/Rotation

2. Extension > Flexion

3. Lateral Flexion/Rotation > Extension

4. Rotation > Extension

The correct answer is: Lateral Flexion/Rotation > Extension

The correct answer reflects a key aspect of the CPR (Clinical Prediction Rule) assessment for the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine. This assessment is designed to identify movement patterns that may be associated with specific spinal conditions or injuries. When considering cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spinal movements, lateral flexion and rotation often occur together due to the anatomical design of the spine and the way that muscles and ligaments function to allow a full range of movement. In healthy spines, lateral flexion and rotation are typically prioritized over extension because they are more commonly used in daily activities and determine how flexibly a person can move at the spine. This means that when assessing movement patterns, lateral flexion and rotation are critical movements that can indicate the presence of dysfunction or compensatory strategies in individuals with spinal issues. Understanding these principles helps health professionals gauge the functional capacity of the spine and can lead to better treatment plans tailored to restore optimal movement patterns and improve outcomes for patients. This prioritization in assessment is particularly relevant in clinical settings, where the dynamism of lateral movement is often more pronounced and can lead to more insightful diagnoses.