Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/1234356
Since the splenius cervicis is intermediate in size and depth, it functions both in maintaining posture and as a prime mover, particularly for cervical extension. As such, poor endurance or excessive tension in this muscle may contribute to postural deviations in the head and neck as well as chronic pain conditions such as headaches, neck pain, and trigger-point activation. Proper balance of endurance and flexibility in the splenius cervicis relative to other associated muscles maximizes cervical alignment and function. Christy Cael is a licensed massage therapist and certified strength and conditioning specialist. Her private practice focuses on injury treatment, biomechanical analysis, craniosacral therapy, and massage for clients with neurological issues. She is the author of Functional Anatomy: Musculoskeletal Anatomy, Kinesiology, and Palpation for Manual Therapists (Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2009). Contact her at christy_cael@hotmail.com. Passive Stretch of Splenius Cervicis Positioning: client supine. 1. Sit at the head of the table and hold the back of client's head with the palms of both hands. 2. Gently tip the client's head toward their shoulder while the client remains relaxed. 3. Maintain the client's face up to prevent cervical rotation initially. 4. Passive cervical rotation or flexion may be added to increase the intensity of stretch. 5. Repeat on the other side. Palpating Splenius Cervicis Positioning: client supine. 1. Sitting at the client's head, place both hands palm up under the client's neck. With the fingertips, find the spinous processes of T3–6. 2. Laterally slide fingertips into the lamina groove. 3. Follow the oblique muscle fibers on the same side toward the cervical transverse processes. 4. The client gently resists, looking up and rotating the neck to ensure proper location. N e w ! A B M P P o c k e t P a t h o l o g y a t w w w. a b m p . c o m / a b m p - p o c k e t - p a t h o l o g y - a p p . 35