EmpowerHeal Physical Therapy
Pelvic Floor Therapy and EDS physical therapy serving Bethesda and Washington DC surrounding metropolitan areas
X
Pelvic Floor Therapy and EDS physical therapy serving Bethesda and Washington DC surrounding metropolitan areas
Cervical instability refers to excessive or abnormal movement between the vertebrae of the neck due to insufficient ligamentous and muscular support. Ligaments help limit motion and protect the spinal cord, brainstem, and vertebral arteries. In EDS, these ligaments may be lax, fragile, or slow to heal, increasing reliance on muscles for stability.
Instability may be subtle and dynamic, meaning it is not always visible on standard imaging performed in neutral positions.
Diagnosis typically requires specialized imaging including upright MRI with flexion and extension views, rotational imaging, dynamic CT scans to assess the stability and alignment of the craniocervical junction. Measurements include the clivo-axial angle, Grabb-Oakes measurement, and atlantooccipital overlapping.
Physical therapy may include gentle activation of the deep neck flexors and extensors, proprioceptive and motor control training, postural and ergonomic education, and strategies to reduce sustained cervical load during daily activities. Use of a cervical collar might also be helpful. Because cervical stability is influenced by the entire body, care often also addresses breathing mechanics, thoracic and rib cage support, scapular control, and core stability.