From the Research
The butterfly test is not a valid or established assessment for neck sensorimotor function, and its use is not supported by recent high-quality evidence. When assessing neck sensorimotor function, clinicians typically use validated tests such as the joint position error test, the cervical movement sense test, or the head-neck relocation test, as discussed in 1. These assessments evaluate proprioception, kinesthesia, and motor control of the cervical spine. For a comprehensive evaluation of neck sensorimotor function, a combination of tests should be used, including assessment of cervical joint position sense, oculomotor control, postural stability, and muscle function.
Some key points to consider when evaluating neck sensorimotor function include:
- The importance of using validated assessment tools, as highlighted in 2, which found that the craniocervical flexion test has limited reliability and responsiveness.
- The need for a comprehensive evaluation, as discussed in 3, which emphasizes the importance of assessing proprioception in musculoskeletal rehabilitation.
- The lack of evidence supporting the use of the butterfly test for neck sensorimotor function, as it is not mentioned in any of the provided studies, including 4 and 5, which focus on different aspects of proprioception and athletic ability.
In clinical practice, it is essential to prioritize the use of validated and reliable assessment tools to ensure accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of neck disorders. The use of unestablished tests like the butterfly test may lead to inaccurate assessments and ineffective treatment plans, ultimately affecting patient outcomes and quality of life. Therefore, clinicians should rely on evidence-based assessments, such as those discussed in 1 and 2, to evaluate neck sensorimotor function and develop targeted rehabilitation strategies.