Thesis (M.Sc.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Physical Therapy - Department of Basic Science

Background: The abnormal or excessive translations between vertebrae in the sagittal plane are clinically important clues to dysfunction or instability. The insufficient exploration of intervertebral translation during flexion and extension prevents the further understanding of the cervical biomechanics and treating the cervical related dysfunction. The Purpose: To examine and correlate the effect of segmental and global sagittal cervical alignment on intervertebral movements in asymptomatic individuals with normal and abnormal cervical curvature. Methods: Thirty four asymptomatic individuals were recruited; they were divided into two groups based on the degree of their cervical lordosis represented by the absolute rotatory angle and anterior head translation distance that were measured from lateral view of cervical spine x-ray. All the individuals underwent plain lateral cervical radiograph with neck in neutral position and end range of flexion and end range of extension. Intervertebral movements were measured through measuring intervertebral rotational and translational movement. Results: Our study revealed that there was significant difference between both groups regarding the intervertebral kinematic movement (P<0.05). These findings were further supported by the significant correlation between the cervical sagittal alignment and intervertebral kinematic movement (P<0.05). Conclusion: The biomechanical response of the vertebrae to the cervical posture and alignment is different in normal and abnormal individuals. Further, the study showed the important role of the upper cervical spine in global spinal posture and movement

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