Influence of movement speed on cervical range of motion.

Purpose: Cervical range of motion (RoM) has been the subject of many studies. However, only very few of these studies have considered the influence of movement execution speed on the cervical kinematics. The aim of this study is to evaluate the influence of movement speed on cervical RoM.

Method: Cervical RoM was recorded using an optoelectronic system; 32 healthy subjects performed movements in two modes: the best possible and as fast as possible.

Outcome Measures: The primary movements (flexion-extension, lateral bending, axial rotation) and coupled movements were studied. Paired Student's tests were performed to compare the two modes of movement.

Results: The results showed that cervical RoM differed significantly between movement speeds. Amplitudes were higher for each movement (p < 0.001 for flexion-extension, p < 0.001 for lateral flexion, p = 0.008 for axial rotations) when movements were performed as quickly as possible. The range of movements carried out the best possible reached only 95% of those during movements carried out as fast as possible. Concerning coupled movements, an increase in rotational movements coupled to lateral flexion during fast movements was observed.

Conclusion: The range of motion reported in the literature corresponds to movement carried out in a mode resembling the best possible of our study. Movements made as quickly as possible can display larger motion ranges.