Techniques for the Occipital Area

Abstract

The occipital and upper cervical regions are areas where extreme caution is necessary in preliminary assessment before techniques are applied. Care is required in all areas, but in the occipital region this is even more critical. There is the possibility of damage to the vertebro-basilar system if instability is present. Precautions need be undertaken before performing any thrust technique that is in any way liable to put the area under mechanical stress. As in the rest of the neck, the patient is often fearful of manipulation, and as light a force as will achieve the required result is essential. It is often difficult for students to achieve the required acceleration and subsequent braking force necessary in thrust technique in this area, and there is no substitute for practice and practical experience.