Assessment of the cervical range of motion over time, differences between results of the Flock of Birds and the EDI-320: a comparison between an electromagnetic tracking system and an electronic inclinometer.

The objective of this study was to analyse cervical range of motion, assessed over time by means of a digital inclinometer (EDI-320) and a three-dimensional electromagnetic tracking device (Flock of Birds). The maximum active cervical range of motion was assessed with two measurement devices in three sessions over time, with 6-week intervals. In total, 26 women and 24 men (mean age: 44.

Interobserver reliability of neck-mobility measurement by means of the flock-of-birds electromagnetic tracking system.

Objective: To establish the interobserver reliability for measuring neck mobility in human subjects by means of an electromagnetic tracking device, the Flock-of-Birds system.

Methods: Two observers independently and in random order assessed the cervical range-of-motion in 30 subjects with a dysfunction in the neck and shoulder region (symptomatic subjects) and 30 subjects without known pathology (asymptomatic subjects). Measurements included rotation in neutral position, in flexed position and in extended position, flexion-extension, and lateral bending (all active and passive).

Variation in the cervical range of motion over time measured by the "flock of birds" electromagnetic tracking system.

Study Design: Observational longitudinal study.

Objective: To establish the normal variation over time for active and passive cervical range of motion (ROM) measured with the Flock of Birds electromagnetic tracking system (FOB).

Summary Of Background Data: Data about normal variation of cervical ROM over time are scarce but important for the interpretation of study results.