This nodding action causes the pressure in the inflated pressure sensor to increase. The movement is performed gently and slowly. The patient is instructed to move the head vertically (as if saying ‘yes’).The PBU will provide feedback and direction to the patient to perform the required stages of the test: The pressure sensor is inflated to a stable baseline pressure of 20 mmHg. Before performing the test, an uninflated pressure sensor (= PBU or pressure biofeedback unit) must be placed beneath the neck so that it abuts the occiput. If necessary, the therapist can place towels under the patient's head to achieve a neutral position of the neck and head. The neutral position of the neck can be visually determined by maintaining a horizontal face position between the forehead and chin, and observing that a line bisecting the neck longitudinally is parallel to the treatment table. The patient is positioned on the table in a supine crook lying position, with the neck in a neutral position. It can also be used as a clinical indicator of impaired activation of the deep cervical flexor muscles, to measure the muscle activity of the deep and superficial cervical muscles or as a therapy approach. the Sternocleidomastoid and the anterior scalene muscles. The test also assesses endurance of the deep cervical flexors and interaction of the deep cervical flexor muscles with the superficial flexors, i.e.
![deep neck flexor endurance test deep neck flexor endurance test](https://myrehabconnection.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Assessment-and-Correction-of-Cervical-Dysfunction.jpg)
The CCFT tests the neuromuscular control of the control of the deep cervical flexor muscles, the longus capitis, and colli. Since 2001, the test has commonly been used in research, Thus this test was developed in response to increased interest in the functional roles of muscles, particularly in active spinal segment stabilization, and the clinical need for more directed and specific therapeutic exercises for patients with neck pain disorders. In addition, Janda proposed that the deep cervical flexors were important in supporting the motion segments and maintaining the cervical lordotic curve. Based on the concept of how altered motor control and muscle morphology lead to impairments of the low back, a similar analogy seemed to be applicable to the cervical core (longus colli, longus capitus) as well. This test involves the subject performing a "yes" like nod which is the anatomical action of the Deep Cervical flexors, against a pressure biofeedback.
![deep neck flexor endurance test deep neck flexor endurance test](https://www.thestudentphysicaltherapist.com/uploads/1/3/2/6/13261333/cerv-pic_4.png)
The Craniocervical flexion test (CCFT) is a clinical test of neuromotor control including the activation and endurance of the deep flexors of the cervical spine.