nekbewegingen

Nekbewegingen refer to the various ways the human neck can move. These movements are facilitated by the seven cervical vertebrae, which are the smallest and most superior vertebrae in the spinal column. The joints between these vertebrae, particularly the atlanto-occipital joint (between the skull and the first vertebra) and the atlanto-axial joint (between the first and second vertebrae), allow for a wide range of motion.

The primary types of neck movements include flexion, extension, lateral flexion, and rotation. Flexion is the movement of the head forward, bringing the chin towards the chest. Extension is the backward movement of the head. Lateral flexion involves tilting the head to one side, bringing the ear closer to the shoulder. Rotation is the turning of the head from side to side, as when looking over one's shoulder.

These movements are controlled by a complex network of muscles, including the sternocleidomastoid, trapezius, and scalene muscles. The range of motion in the neck is crucial for maintaining balance, facilitating visual scanning, and supporting the head. However, the flexibility of the neck also makes it susceptible to injury, such as whiplash, strains, and sprains. Understanding neck movements is important in fields like physical therapy, sports medicine, and ergonomics to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the neck and to promote proper posture and movement.