If the SBS is limited in extension, how is the dysfunction described?

If the SBS is limited in extension, how is the dysfunction described?

• A. Flexed
• B. Extended
• C. Neutral
• D. Rotated

Answer: (A)

In cranial evaluation, the name of the somatic dysfunction comes from the direction in which motion is restricted at the SBS. If the sphenobasilar synchondrosis cannot extend, the motion is biased toward flexion, so the dysfunction is described as flexed. This reflects the SBS being in a relatively flexed position because extension is limited. If it were limited in flexion, it would be described as extended; neutral means no bias toward flexion or extension, and rotation pertains to torsion/side-bending patterns rather than this extension restriction.

In cranial evaluation, the name of the somatic dysfunction comes from the direction in which motion is restricted at the SBS. If the sphenobasilar synchondrosis cannot extend, the motion is biased toward flexion, so the dysfunction is described as flexed. This reflects the SBS being in a relatively flexed position because extension is limited. If it were limited in flexion, it would be described as extended; neutral means no bias toward flexion or extension, and rotation pertains to torsion/side-bending patterns rather than this extension restriction.