Which term describes the pattern measured by tests of cervical flexion, extension, and rotation, focusing on smoothness and symmetry?

• A. Upper Extremity Patterns
• B. Thoracic Outlet Patterns
• C. Cervical Patterns
• D. Lumbo-Pelvic Patterns

Answer: (C)

The pattern being assessed is the neck region, or cervical patterns. Tests of cervical flexion, extension, and rotation focus on how smoothly and symmetrically the head and neck move in multiple directions. Evaluating smoothness looks at the fluidity and control of the movement, while symmetry checks that both sides move comparably, reflecting balanced coordination of the cervical spine and surrounding muscles.

Other options point to different regions: upper extremity patterns involve the arms and hands; thoracic outlet patterns relate to compression areas near the shoulder girdle; and lumbo-pelvic patterns assess the lower spine and pelvis. Since the specific movements described—neck flexion, extension, and rotation—pertain to the cervical region, the best fit is cervical patterns.