Cervicothoracic Manipulation Techniques Reviewed Utilizing Three-Dimensional Spine Model

Abstract

Currently, there is a paucity of studies that describe prone cervicothoracic joint high-velocity low-amplitude (HVLA) thrust techniques using an anatomically accurate, biomimetic three-dimensional (3D) spine model for educational demonstration. The purpose of this technical report was to present a learning model for two prone cervicothoracic HVLA thrust techniques using a 3D model, review intersegmental mobility observed on a 3D spine model with application of the techniques, and lastly discuss potential applications of this learning model.

Keywords: 3d-printed spine model; learning; manual therapy; spinal manipulation.

Conflict of interest statement

The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

Copyright © 2019, McCoy et al.

Figures

Figure 1. Prone right cervicothoracic manipulation technique

(A) Visualization of left facet upglide during prone right cervicothoracic mobilization technique. (B) Palpation of C7 Spinous process with the patient prone in a comfortable position prior to mobilization technique. (C) Set up depicted for prone right cervicothoracic manipulation at C7-T1 with therapist standing to right of patient on a high low table. Left hand point of contact is through second metacarpophalangeal joint at the articular pillar of intended spinal segment and right mobilizing hand at lateral and posterior aspect of head which is supported by a towel roll at the anterior aspect of the subjects right temporal area promoting right rotation up to the cervicothoracic joint junction.

Figure 2. Prone lateral break cervicothoracic maneuver

(A) Set up for lateral break cervicothoracic joint HVLA thrust on 3D spine model. Right facet upglide depicted at intended segments during application of lateral break cervicothoracic maneuver promoting left side bending. (B) Set up for lateral break cervicothoracic manipulation technique on subject with therapist standing on right side of the high low table with towel roll support to forehead. Left hand point of contact through second metacarpophalangeal joint at intended segment with line of force in the medial direction and right mobilizing hand to lateral aspect of right temporal region.