What is the advised position for a patient with right lateral cervical foramen narrowing at C5-6 to avoid reproduction of their radiculopathy?

• A. Head tilted forward and to the right
• B. Head rotated to the left and flexed
• C. Head rotated to the left and slightly flexed
• D. Head tilted back and straight

Answer: (C)

The advised position for a patient with right lateral cervical foramen narrowing at C5-6 to avoid reproduction of their radiculopathy is characterized by head rotation to the left and slight flexion. This positioning is beneficial because it reduces tension in the structures affected by the narrowing of the cervical foramen, particularly the nerve roots exiting at the C5-6 level.

When the head is rotated to the left, it creates more space within the right lateral foramen by shifting the cervical spine and opening up the area where the affected nerve root exits. Additionally, slight flexion can further alleviate pressure on the nerve roots by minimizing any extension-related irritation or compression that might occur at the foramen. Together, these movements help in preventing the exacerbation of radicular symptoms.

Choosing an alternative position, such as tilting the head forward and to the right, could further compress the nerve root on the affected side, while positions that involve more significant rotation or extension may increase tension along the nerve pathways, potentially worsening symptoms. Therefore, the position of head rotation to the left with slight flexion is the most effective at reducing symptoms associated with radiculopathy in this scenario.