• The nerve root of C7 runs between vertebrae C6 and C7. 
• Motor function includes:
• full shoulder movement (rotation, adduction and abduction)
• strong scapular stability
• elbow extension - tricep (ability to straighten bent
       arm)
• strong wrist extension 
• moderate grasp (extensor digitorium muscle permits extension of digits, some finger flexor muscle intact)
• trunk stability 
• respiratory reserve remains poor 

• C7 provides sensation to middle digit.

Neck: 

• strong neck stability

• assess ability to rotate shoulder
• assess ability to abduct arm at shoulder (away from body)
• assess abduction against examiner resistance 
• assess ability to adduct arm at shoulder (toward body) 
• assesss adduction against examiner resistance 

• assess ability to straighten bent elbow against resistance
• assess ability to straighten elbow against examiner resistance
• C7  tricep function 

• assess ability to extend wrist 
• assess ability to extend wrist against resistance 
• C7 strong wrist extension

• observe digits during extension
• assess digit extension against resistance
• C7 strong extenion
• observe digits during digit flexion
• C7 weak flexion

 

• Test middle finger on one hand for sensation, then test same spot on opposite side
• Always apply the same amount of pressure to each side
• Ask patient to compare sensation on side A to side B
• Conceal test from the patient
• Light touch:
• use wisp of cotton or tissue; touch middle digit and assess sensation
• Sharp touch:
• use safety pin (do not use needle), or cap of pen; assess middle digit for sensation on each hand

• feeding and grooming
• independent transfers 
• able to sit up and roll over in bed 
• can dress self 
• may drive car with hand controls entilation