What motion does the cervical spine favor?

• A. Flexion
• B. Extension
• C. Rotation
• D. Lateral Flexion

Answer: (C)

Rotation dominates cervical spine movement because the atlas–axis complex (C1 on C2) provides the main freedom to turn the head from side to side. The atlas rotates around the dens of C2, giving a large range of axial rotation that far exceeds the amount of flexion, extension, or lateral bending available in the neck. The upper cervical joints are structured to favor turning the head, while flexion/extension and lateral flexion are present but more limited by ligament and facet alignment. So, the cervical spine is best described as being oriented toward rotation as its primary motion.