The Cervical Flexion-Rotation Test (FRT)

The Cervical Flexion-Rotation Test (FRT)

Reference:Hall TM, et al. Intertester reliability and diagnostic validity of the cervical flexion-rotation test. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 2008 May;31(4):293-300.

The cervical flexion-rotation test (FRT) has been shown to be valuable in identifying patients with cervical headaches.

The basic purpose of this FRT proposed by Brian Mulligan, is to evaluate C1-2 rotation dysfunction. With the patient in supine lying, fully flex the patient’s neck by taking the chin to the manubrium. While maintaining the full flexion by using your belly, the head is rotated to the left and then to the right and an obvious asymmetry is noted.

If C1-2 mobility is normal, the head will turn approximately 45�. If the patient suffers from one-side dominant cervical headaches, rotation to one side will be restricted. FRT less than 30� may be considered positive.

The diagnostic accuracy (reliability and validity) of the FRT has been shown to be good in both experienced and inexperienced manual therapists. So go ahead try it on your patients with headaches!

Posted on: December 22, 2014

Categories: Headache/Vertigo , Cervical Spine