Three-dimensional analysis of neck motion. A clinical method.

A clinical method is described for simultaneous recording of neck motion in three different planes using electrogoniometric equipment. Results correlated with those reported in the literature regarding separate examinations of the motion range in the separate planes. Correlation with conventional gravity goniometer was good as to flexion-extension and lateral flexion, whereas, for rotation, a compass goniometer showed poor correlation and, also, unsatisfactory reproducibility. The electrogoniometric recordings showed good correlation with radiographically determined flexion-extension occiput-C7 as well as lateral flexion C1-T1. Graphical recordings made in the three different planes demonstrated in detail the different movements that contribute to the complex motion pattern of the neck. This three-dimensional motion analysis affords a more objective functional evaluation of common neck disorders that may supplement radiographic examination.