Which intervention is recommended for immediate relief in a patient with a positive flexion rotation test at C1-2?

• A. C1-2 manipulation and upper thoracic manipulation
• B. Regular physical therapy exercises
• C. Prescribed pain medication
• D. Rest and ice application

Answer: (A)

The recommended intervention for immediate relief in a patient with a positive flexion rotation test at C1-2 is manipulative therapy focused on the atlantoaxial joint. The positive flexion rotation test indicates restricted motion or potential dysfunction at the C1-2 segment, which can often be associated with cervical pain or headaches.

C1-2 manipulation targets the specific joint that may be contributing to the patient's symptoms, aiming to restore normal function and alleviate pain. This technique can provide rapid pain relief by improving mobility and reducing mechanical irritation in the cervical region. Upper thoracic manipulation may also be beneficial as it addresses potential compensatory patterns and increases mobility throughout the rest of the cervical spine and thoracic region.

While regular physical therapy exercises, prescribed pain medication, and rest with ice application might provide varying levels of symptomatic relief, they are generally not as immediate in terms of addressing the specific dysfunction indicated by a positive flexion rotation test. Rest and ice, for instance, may help in managing pain, but they do not address the underlying joint restriction. Similarly, medication may relieve pain but doesn't directly impact the mechanical dysfunction at C1-2.